Distinguished Lecture
The First Emperor’s Magic Army:
Crafting and Meaning of the Terracotta Warriors
China’s Magic Army Revealed
A deep dive into the techniques, meanings, and beliefs behind the lifelike terracotta warriors of the First Emperor.
Explore one of the most extraordinary archeological discoveries in China: the so-called “Magic Army” of the First Emperor. More than 8,000 terracotta warriors have been unearthed near the mausoleum of Qin Shihuang, China’s First Emperor. How were these remarkable sculptures made? What purposes did they serve?
Join Dr. Shih-Shan Susan Huang as she examines the innovative techniques used to produce seemingly life-like and individualized statues, and considers their symbolic meanings in relation to ancient Chinese beliefs about the afterlife, imperial power, and protection.
Join Dr. Shih-Shan Susan Huang as she examines the innovative techniques used to produce seemingly life-like and individualized statues, and considers their symbolic meanings in relation to ancient Chinese beliefs about the afterlife, imperial power, and protection.
February 26, 2026 | 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
See Event Members $12, Public $18
See Admission Located in Wortham Giant Screen Theatre
See Accessibility Please Note:
This lecture is eligible for 1 hour of CPE credit.
Meet the Speaker
Shih-shan Susan Huang is the T.T. and W.F. Chao Professor of Transnational Asian Studies at Rice University. Her research explores the intersections of art, religion, and transnational networks in Asia.
Related Attractions
Special Exhibition
Terracotta Warriors
Step into the cradle of Chinese civilization and watch history come alive. Over 110 newly unearthed treasures, from striking Terracotta Warriors to jade, gold, and bronze masterpieces, make their final stop at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
Education Programming
BTS – Terracotta Warriors
March 11, 2026 6:30 pm
Step into the cradle of Chinese civilization and see history come alive in an exclusive after-hours tour with museum docents.
Step into the cradle of Chinese civilization and see history come alive in an exclusive after-hours tour with museum docents.