Overview

The museum was founded in 1915 and is located on the third floor of the Center. Kyoto's silk weaving was adapted from Chinese techniques and received backing from the imperial court in the early days, but this support was interrupted during the 15th century civil wars. The industry was revived during the Edo period, helped by the Tokugawa decree that the aristocracy patronize Nishijin artisans. Dutch and French methods and machinery were introduced during the Meiji period. Today fabrics such as crepe, satins, gauzes, brocades and damask are still produced by traditional methods to make obi and other products - samples of which are on display.