Modelled in a standing position, this figurine of a middle-ranking soldier is representative of the two styles that emerged during the production boom of tomb objects during the Han Dynasty. The emphasis on realistic, detailed forms usually sculptured in rigid positions characterized one style while the preference for stylized, disproportionate forms made to capture the essential nature and occupation of the subject through exaggerated movement defined the other style. This figurine appears to borrow from both styles, in its detailed facial expression, rigid standing posture, arm movement and disproportionate formation of the trunk. Beneath the earthen residue, the figurine dons a multi-layered ensemble of red and white inner garments, a blue three quartered cross-over robe, and culottes. Hair tucked in a blue cap with red trimming, he is captured in a pose typical of men called to arms or service as carriers--one arm lifted forward and one arm held closely to the side with holes carved into the hands to provide space to hold weapons or official emblems. Han dynasty figurines were not created as works of art; they were made to answer the needs of a particular belief about life after death and the spirit world. It was believed that the tomb figurines could appease the dual aspects of the soul--one which thrived in the realm of spirits and the unknown and the other which remained connected to the materiality of the earth realm. Thus, the artisan strived to embody the object with a life force strong enough to satisfy both halves of the soul that were thought as immortal.