"Awakening" The Terracotta Army Horses
Inspired by images of the copper horses of China's First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, 210 B.C.
Emperor Qin Shi Huang, historically a ruthless leader, created an army of Terracotta soldiers and war horses, and buried them in pits below the ground facing the nations he had conquered while alive. The emperor believed if he were attacked after death, his copper army, currently 8000 strong, would protect him.
In this original 60" X 36" acrylic, the horses have been "awakened." Their golden orbs have become eyes that see and understand the flames in the distance. The male horse on the left is confident and the young horses on the right are eager but, despite her bravery and willingness to fight, the mare in the middle knows the consequences of war.