Silk ribbon. Capital, art & crisis - a guided tour for people with visual impairments

What does the inconspicuous spinning thread of an Asian butterfly have to do with the rise and fall of an entire industry in the Basel region? The silk ribbon industry, which dates back to the 16th century, developed into the most important employer in the Basel region in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Basel silk ribbons were indispensable in international fashion worldwide.

The tour focuses on the everyday life of home ribbon makers: the creation of the precious ribbons and life around the loom. Various examples of ribbons, woven at home and in the factory, show the diversity of the fashionable silk ribbon and point to its importance as a luxury and export item. A special attraction is the shuttle loom controlled by punched cards (around 1900).

Duration: 60 min.
For people with visual impairments.
Registration: +41 61 552 59 86, museum@bl.ch