Ancient China Sculpture Art

The earliest sculptures that have ever been found are of Chinese origin and date back to 10,000 BCE. Most of the early sculptures that have been found in Asia were decoration on useful objects like pots or funerary art. The most famous example of ancient China sculpture is the Terra Cotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Quin Shi Huang was the first emperor to unite China. He died about 200 BCE and was laid to rest with an entire army of life-size sculpted warriors, chariots and horses made from terra cotta. In this way, he hoped to bring to the afterlife with him his army so that he could rule there as well. We don’t know if it worked or not.

The practice of putting sculptures in tombs so that the deceased will not travel alone to the afterlife or will not be without loved ones in the afterlife is something that is seen in many cultures, but no other funerary sculpture has the visual impact that China’s terra cotta army has. Part of the site is open for visitors.

Throughout history right up until the present day Chinese sculptors have excelled at the art of sculpture and often use precious materials and difficult processes to create unique works of art that are functional as well as beautiful.