For centuries, spider silk was coveted by those seeking to compete with the silk arriving from China and flooding the wealthy wardrobes and bedchambers of Europe. Golden Spider Silk charts the histories of the fascinating players determined to harness this rarest of silks, from the inception of the idea by the Frenchman François-Xavier Bon in 1709 to modern-day creators.

As a companion exhibition to Fashioning and Empire: Textiles from Safavid Iran, this captivating installation delves into the fascinating world of golden spider silk, unveiling its extraordinary history and remarkable properties.

Dates: 19th March – 6th July 2024

Temporary Exhibition Gallery, 4th Floor, MIA

Entrance to the exhibition is free with museum admission. Museum tickets may be reserved online in advance of your visit.