China's terracotta warriors flown to Perth for special exhibition

Cathay Cargo was charged with transporting the priceless figurines from China to Australia

Cathay Cargo has carefully transported ten terracotta figures and more than 200 priceless artefacts from Xi’an in China to Perth, Australia, for an exhibition.

‘Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor’ at WA Museum Boola Bardip will showcase the world renowned terracotta warriors alongside ancient weapons and armour, sculptures, bronze vessels, palace tiles and pottery, most of which has never been seen in Australia before. Half of the artefacts have never left China. 

“What makes this exhibition unique is its impressive collection of priceless artefacts,” said Museum Exhibitions director Jason Fair. “It is our mission to inspire curiosity. We hope people gain an understanding of the culture, history and people of China as well as this pivotal moment in Chinese history."

The exhibition runs until February 2026 when the artefacts will be transported back to Xi’an by Cathay Cargo.

Transporting priceless objects across continents required meticulous planning. The terracotta warriors are among China’s most iconic cultural treasures and Cathay admitted it was a privilege to help bring Chinese culture to the world. The artefacts were initially transported to Zhengzhou from where they were flown to Australia via Hong Kong.

What are the terracotta warriors?

The Terracotta Army comprises pottery warriors, chariots and horses

The Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures crafted more than 2,000 years ago. They represent the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. The figures were buried with the emperor on his death to protect him in the afterlife. The collection includes warriors, generals, chariots and horses.

The Terracotta Army was discovered by chance in 1974 when a group of farmers were digging a well nearby to the emperor’s tomb mound. It turned out to be the largest pottery figurine group ever found and a museum complex has since been built in the area to showcase the discovery.

Find out more about Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor online.