Ink marks, bronze crossbows and their implications for the Qin Terracotta Army

Researchers have uncovered evidence of ink marks on bronze crossbow triggers from the Terracotta Army's Pit 1, revealing a previously unknown system of 'matching' marks used by Qin Dynasty craftsmen. Using advanced techniques like multispectral photography, digital microscopy, and Raman analysis, the study identified soot-based ink as the substance for these marks, providing new insights into Qin bronze-worker practices during the crucial period of Chinese state formation. Spatial analysis of both inked and incised trigger marks suggests a broader pattern of bureaucratic accountancy in tracking objects and people, enhancing our understanding of Qin craft organization and logistics.

Bevan, A., Li, X., Zhao, Z., Huang, J., Laidlaw, S., Xi, N., Xia, Y., Ma, S., & Martinon-Torres, M. (2018). Ink marks, bronze crossbows and their implications for the Qin Terracotta Army. Heritage Science, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40494-018-0239-5