A Craftsmen Treasure: Tracing the Early Research on Yingzao Suanli

Yingzao suanli is the collective name for a series of secret manuals used by imperial craftsmen that were collected and reprint by Zhongguo Yingzao Xueshe (Society for Research in Chinese Architecture) in the twentieth century. These manuals are recognized and acknowledged as crucial instruments of the traditional artisan system and have attracted much attention. By systematically exploring the historical material and past research of it, the article will recover the history of discovery and reevaluate the early study of Yingzao suanli. Through analysis of social setting and personal background, the article will then identify the motivation of the individual members of the Society who conducted the research. Finally, the article will demonstrate Zhu Qiqian’s profound academic knowledge and formal organization talent.