Terracotta Warriors Guard Chinese Treasures

January 21, 2007

Terracotta Warriors Guard Chinese Treasures

The ‘Terracotta Warriors of Qin’ on display at SKYCITY Theatre are guarding exquisite ancient Chinese treasures.

Stunning artefacts including cowry shell coins dating back to Neolithic times, jade works of art, and bronze and jade objects from Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) tombs are protected by the awe inspiring army, themselves a spectacular recreation of the treasures discovered in 1974 by farmers near Xi’an, China.

Taking centre stage is the stunning Imperial dragon, carved from a solid block of green jade in 220 BC, and a First Emperor dragon vessel of imperial white jade with a dragon’s head as its base.

More than 300 weapons from the Warring States Period and Qin Dynasty (476 to 206 BC), daggers, crossbows and spears are also on show in what is believed to be the largest collection of its kinds outside of China, with visitors admiring the incredible detail and craftsmanship of these superior works of art in their own right.

A hostess, attired in dress of the times, is at the exhibition to answer visitors’ questions, and video presentations explore the discovery of the warriors, how the replicas were made, and the history of the weapons. Photography is permitted, and most visitors have their photo taken in formation with the warriors or next to the magnificent bronze statue of the First Emperor himself.

The Terracotta Warriors of Qin exhibition is at SKYCITY Theatre until February 10, open daily 10.00am to 6.00pm (late night Thursday). Tickets cost $15.00 for adults, $10.00 for children (under 15 years), $40.00 per family (2 adults, 2 children), $12.00 for groups (10 plus people). Tickets are available from Ticketek at www.ticketek.co.nz or phone 0800 842 538. For more on the warriors and the exhibition visit www.terracottawarriors.co.nz.

ENDS

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