Statue of Hua Mu Lan
Image source: www.pinterest.com

Terracotta Sculptures in Chinese Arts
When you think of stone sculptures or garden statues, your mind might race with stock images and stereotypical examples like proud English Lions, cheeky gnomes or medieval grotesques and scary stone gargoyles. If you’re more classically inclined, you might think of Greco-Roman gods lined up in their birthday suits, striking strong poses and depicting scenes from ancient myths and legends. All of these are very valid examples, and look great in gardens of varying shape and size. However, there is so much more potential when it comes to adorning your outside space with something special. See a few unusual examples, below.

Qin Shi Huang (the first Emperor of China) is famous for a lot of things, but one of his most recognisable and lasting monuments? The Terracotta Army. This vast terracotta force, built to protect the Emperor in the afterlife, has stood proudly since the 2nd century BC and still fascinates us today. The warriors, chariots and horses that remain of the (estimated) 8000 strong army are arranged in height order, according to rank. Each soldier is unique, and they were all made in parts, before being assembled. A phenomenal project, even by today’s standards.