Antique Terracotta Colourful Knight Statue 20cm
This terracotta knight statue is inspired by the buried army of Xi'an and its warriors protecting the emperor. Handmade and patinated for an authentically ancient finish, it measures approximately 20 x 7 x 4 cm for 350g.
Terracotta knight statue from Xi'an, China
Approximate size: 20 x 7 x 4 cm
Approximate weight: 350g
The terracotta figurines are made from baked clay, handcrafted, and then carefully finished.
Their appearance is authentically ancient, and each terracotta figurine has subtle differences.
The Terracotta Army, also known as "figurines of warriors and horses buried with the dead" (bīngmǎ yǒng), is a collection of nearly eight thousand terracotta sculptures of soldiers and horses, representing the army of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China; it was intended to protect the emperor on his journey after death, ensuring his safety and power even in the afterlife.
Knight: These terracotta soldiers are depicted leading horses, performing transport and support duties. They are often shown pulling carts or wagons carrying military supplies. While their decoration is generally less elaborate, it nonetheless reflects their importance in army logistics. A knight figurine represents a Hui Muslim, an ethnic minority in China, part of the Muslim community.
The highly realistic terracotta statues of warriors and horses faithfully depict their appearance at the time of their discovery. The aging process is far more complex than that of ordinary statues, requiring meticulous work and a significant amount of time. To achieve an authentic look, they must be buried in the ground for a period of time, then unearthed, exposed to the elements, and restored. Only after this natural erosion process can a realistic effect be achieved. Consequently, their value is considerably high due to the complexity and authenticity of the manufacturing process.
This type of item naturally finds its place in decoration boutiques, stores specializing in Asian art, or wellness spaces seeking pieces with a strong cultural identity. Its compact size makes it easy to display on shelves or in grouped presentations alongside other figurines from the series.
Offering this statue allows retailers to meet the needs of customers curious about Chinese history and culture, who are seeking original decorative items. Its reduced size and light weight also simplify stock management and regular restocking in-store.
