National Silk Art Museum

This is the most important and extensive exhibition of woven French silk tapestry ever shown in the world. On exhibit on a rotating basis are over 200 masterworks of silk tapestry based on works by major artists primarily of the 19th and 20th century. These tapestries are considered the most beautiful tapestries in existence.

Silk tapestries is the art form of weaving silk textiles producing pictures and images. This process was the major means of reproduction of master pieces prior to photography. Joseph-Marie-Jacquard (1752-1834) was the French inventor who pioneered the practical use of punch cards to control the pattern of cloth that was woven on a special loom. The Jacquard loom started a technological revolution in the textile industry. Silk tapestries have remained popular because of their three dimensional characteristics and intricate weaving. They are truly timeless works of art.