At a time when the textile industry is at the heart of growing environmental and ethical awareness, the history of the textile industry in France offers an opportunity to grasp the immense economic and social importance it played in our country before its collapse at the end of the last century.

“Made in France: A History of Textiles” aims to show how the State supported this industry, from the efforts of Jean-Baptiste Colbert under Louis XIV to the government plans of the Fourth and Fifth Republics to save it from economic crises. It presents the actions of governments over several centuries to control, understand, and encourage French textile production, from natural fibers to synthetic materials.

The exhibition tells the story of textiles “Made in France,” drawing primarily on the rich collection of samples held at the Archives nationales. This is the first time this collection has been shown to the public. The particularly well-documented samples are representative of the great diversity of a production that has now disappeared, from the most popular to the most luxurious fabrics.

In dialogue with items from various institutions, these archives—a reminder of the country’s commercial policies—bear witness to the importance of this industry. They represent an indispensable source for understanding the history of textiles in France from the 17th century to the present day, and the central role it played in the lives of the multitude of individuals who participated in its development, from the production of raw materials to final consumption.

Organized into four sections, the exhibition covers three centuries of industrial development in France and the State’s doctrine for this sector: to know, control, and support the industry.

October 16 2024 - January 27 2025 | Archives nationales - Paris