Silk Chronicles: from Padua to the Soviet Era

In the framework of the Horizon Europe project ARACNE, The Silk Museum presents an exhibition about the rich history of scientific practices of sericulture (silkworm farming) and moriculture (mulberry cultivation). This exhibition is a time guide to the scientific directions that shaped the industrial landscape of Georgia in the 20th century.

Life cycle and the feeding process of the silkworm, as well as cultivation of mulberry plantations are integral parts of sericulture. These processes are depicted in this unique collection presented to the visitors with a renewed perspective after four years of fundamental rehabilitation of The State Silk Museum. For the first time, a remarkable collection of handmade infographics from early 20th-century Padua and Soviet-era agitation posters from the late 1950s are on display. 

The exhibition highlights the historical practices of silkworm care and the achievements of the time. A rare, early 20th century infographics from Padua depict scientific research that is unique in its design style. Soviet propaganda posters and illustrations of the 1950s are made with a different design. The presented material introduces us to the field of sericulture by artistically combining the general characteristics of the era, visual and textual elements. By looking back, important contours are drawn that demonstrate how much influence silk has had on our cultural heritage in relation to global industry.