Abstract
This study aims to showcase the progression of rafter supporting columns in Chinese architecture called Qingyanzhu(擎檐柱) from the Song dynasty to the Qing dynasty. Upon analysis of different styles of buildings with Qingyanzhu found in paintings, it was apparent that the conner rafter supporting column and the vertical bar supporting the curtain frame beneath the roof edge called Piliangan(擗簾竿) were combined into a set composed of columns, handrails and upper screen panels during the South Song dynasty. On the other hand, a lot of civil houses and stores had installed the extending roof panel called Panyinyan(版引檐) on the edge of the roof since the North Song dynasty; it was supported by columns on the balcony with handrails that could be considered as an early version of Qingyanzhu. This composed set became a popular architectural language especially in double-story buildings during the Yuan dynasty. After thorough research of existing buildings with Qingyanzhu, the results revealed this set had been used during the Ming dynasty and was inherited by the Qing dynasty. Based on these records, the people of the Qing dynasty called it Qingyan(擎檐), they repaired or imitated early buildings with Qingyan and created some new styles incorporating Qingyan.