France'stextile industry flourished for three centuries before collapsing at the end of the 20th century. These days, Made in France is a rarity, with brands preferring to relocate abroad, but at a time when consumers are demanding more ethics, the trend is making a comeback. From October 16, 2024 to January 27, 2025 , the Archives Nationales is devoting a free exhibition to the history of our industry, from its production to its consumers, through numerous fabrics and pieces never before presented to the public.
Successive governments have supported French textile production, from Jean-Baptiste Colbert under Louis XIV to the government plans of the IVth and Vth Republics to try to save it from economic crises. From natural fibers and synthetics to popular fabrics and luxury cloths, the many samples preserved at the Archives Nationales in the collections devoted to trade and industry document the diversity of production throughout history.
In this four-part exhibition, the general public will discover the making of Made in France, which began with Colbert, Comptroller General of Finances, who developed French textile factories; the turning point of the Revolution, when guilds were abolished; the Industrial Revolution, which improved working conditions; and then the challenge of globalization, through numerous more or less effective public policies, which have led to both good times and terrible crises.
Dates and Opening Time
From October 16, 2024 to January 27, 2025
Location
Archives Nationales - Paris site
60 Rue des Francs Bourgeois
75003 Paris 3
Prices
Free
Official website
www.archives-nationales.culture.gouv.fr
