Yingzao Fashi (Architecture Standards)
This is a monograph on architecture published in the Northern Song Dynasty. Compilation of the book was started during 1068-1078 by the government department in charge of construction and finished in 1091. Later it was reedited by Li Jie (?-1110), and republished in 1103. The work comprises 34 volumes with 357 articles and 3,555 items, covering the terms of buildings, management of various workers, time limits for various tasks, materials, and patterns and designs. It discusses in detail the jobs of masonry and carpentry, as well as those of bamboo and earth. It also includes detail processes and specifications for the making of building parts and paintings, including the needed materials and labor. But it also shows flexibility in designing to ensure the quality of buildings. Many of its contents came from the experience of skilled workers and craftsmen. The work served as standards for official buildings in the central part of China. As it keeps a number of patterns, designs and data on ancient buildings and decorations, it is of great significance for the study of the history of Chinese architecture. |
