The preparatory committee of the World Society for Ying Zao Studies was established in this capital of east China's Zhejiang Province Tuesday.

   Its establishment was declared at the Second International  Conference on Chinese Architectural History.

   Zheng Xiaoxie, a renowned expert in Ying Zao studies, were  appointed consultant of the committee, while Luo Zhewen, another  expert, became honorary chairman.

   Ying Zao studies, or the study of architectural method,  explains the history and characteristics of ancient Chinese  architecture. In the ancient Chinese dynasties several thousand  years ago, the oriental construction style created by Chinese  architects had been widely accepted by neighboring countries.

   According to Yang Hongxun, chairman of the preparatory  committee, the society, with members from 16 countries and regions, is aimed to promote the theory of harmony between mankind and  nature in order to strive for a combination of world architectural cultures.

   More than 190 representatives from ten-plus countries and  regions attended the four-day conference.