The Origins of “Yingzao Suanli”: A Brief Analysis of Zhao Yu’s Books of Yingjin and Yingjin Algorithm

“Yingzao suanli” is a comprehensive term referring to a series of artisanal private transcriptions compiled by the Society for Research in Chinese Architecture. By analyzing the historical research trails concerning the authorship of “Yingzao suanli” and the newly uncovered Yingjin Algorithm, this paper establishes that the origins of “Yingzao suanli” can be traced back to Zhao Yu’s book Yingjin, written during late Yuan dynasty which underwent gradual supplementation and expansion over time. Additionally, pertinent research trails have been compiled to elucidate fundamental information, including the contents and the timeline of compilation of the book.