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 For
150 years, the small town of Charlieu has been renown for its exceptional silk destined
for haute couture and high quality furnishing. Numerous princely wedding dresses and
numerous castle drapes were woven here. Lady Diana, Karl Largerfeld and the Sultan of
Brunei are all among the recent clients to the "Charliendine" silk industry.In 1992, a Silk Museum opened its doors. The realisation of quality, on a scientific base earned it the label of "Musée contrôlé", awarded by the Culture Minister. At the Silk Museum in Charlieu your visit will start with collection of textile
machines all in working order, of which most date back to the 19th century.
They are presented in a room of impressive dimensions : 30m long, 7m wide and nearly 7m
high! You will see the traditional weaving of material by manual and mechanical operation. Those interested with mechanics can also see the more contemporary methods. Further on you cannot fail to admire the luxurious silk dresses as well as examples of the latest creations.
You will also learn about the last "Corporation des Tisserands" (weavers corporation) still active in France, which organises a unique and spectacular fete every year with auctions of royalties! Finally, an audio-visual presentation will describe the different stages in the creation of a material. |
The documents, photographs and tools will
help understand better the life and work of the textile workers.