Building the foundations of excellence

Additionally, Yangshi Lei architecture emphasizes symmetry and coordination, embodying centrality while forming a unified yet hierarchical whole.

The Lei family used precise design drawings and three-dimensional models that were made from simple materials like cardboard, straw, and wood, illustrating detailed architectural elements and internal structures.

In the later period of the Qing Dynasty, some Western elements were integrated into Yangshi Lei architecture, especially in buildings like Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace).

Zhang Zhiqing, deputy director of the national library, says that from the day a collection of Yangshi Lei drawings and models entered the library, it has been aware of their significance to the architecture history of China.

Ever since, the library has made its Yangshi Lei archives a special collection and continues to supplement it.

There are more than 20,000 extant drawings and files, and the National Library of China is holding approximately 15,000, accounting for three-quarters of the total.

Bai Hongye, a researcher from the national library's ancient books division, says that eight generations and dozens of individuals from the family served in the Qing Dynasty's architectural design office over the course of more than 240 years.