Three dynasties
They're back! Terra Cotta Warriors making a comeback in Houston
- Male attendant figure., Yangling Tomb compound, northwest of modern Xi’an,Western Han dynasty (ca. 141 B.C.)
- Figure of kneeling archer, Qin dynasty (221–206 B.C.), earthenware. The paintedgarments and armor on this recently excavated figure are clearly visible, thanksto new conservation techniques.
- Figures of attendants still in situation, Yangling Tomb compound, northwest ofmodern Xi’an Western Han dynasty (ca. 141 B.C.)
- Figure of a sow, Western Han dynasty (ca. 141 B.C.), unearthed from burial piton eastern side of Yangling Tomb compound, northwest of modern Xi’an
- Figure of standing infantry soldier with shield, Western Han dynasty (171–141B.C.), painted earthenware
- Figure of mounted cavalry soldier, Western Han dynasty (171–141 B.C.), paintedearthenware
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is slated to open another Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit next spring. Before any rumors get started: This one, titled Warriors, Tombs, and Temples: China's Enduring Legacy, will feature only "four of the famous life-size Terra Cotta Warriors" (and no, they didn't snag these warriors from the everything-must-go, closeout-sale at Katy's now-defunct Forbidden Gardens).
"One of the warriors will still have armor and clothing that retained the original paint," says Dirk Van Tuerenhout, curator of anthropology, who will ask visitors to "imagine what these statues might have looked like the day they were lined up in the tomb: all resplendent with their colors. Sadly, most of that was lost over time."
HMNS's 2009 exhibition, Terra Cotta Warriors: Guardians of China's First Emperor, was an enormous success, but focused only on one emperor's legacy.
The upcoming exhibition will represent three dynasties — the Qin, Han and Tang — and will focus on quotidian ancient China. In addition to the preserved painted warrior, the collection will include paintings, ornaments and other artifacts that will provide a glimpse into the daily life and the cultural values of ancient Chinese people.
The exhibit will open April 1, 2012 and run through Sept. 3, 2012.