Condition
The sculpture was damaged during transport when the lower portion containing the legs detached from the upper body. On arrival, the sculpture was in two main sections, with several small broken and detached terracotta fragments found loose within the transport crate. The sculpture weighs approximately 160 kg, with the upper body measuring approximately 120 cm in height. While the damage was structurally significant, the overall surface of the sculpture remained in good condition.
Treatment
On-site conservation treatment was undertaken to stabilise and rejoin the Terracotta Warrior sculpture following damage sustained during transport. The sculpture’s legs had become detached, requiring structural stabilisation to ensure the long-term integrity of the object. The upper body was carefully supported to allow safe realignment of the separated sections. The main components were aligned and securely reattached using internal dowels and a conservation-grade adhesive, followed by the careful re-adhering of smaller detached fragments.
Once structural repairs were completed, minor surface losses were filled and retouched to visually integrate the repairs with the surrounding terracotta. The sculpture was then positioned and secured in its designated display location within the apartment, restoring both its stability and appearance for ongoing display.
Before treatment
During treatment
After treatment
