China National Silk Museum’s “Silk and the Silk Road” Exhibition Opens in Kazakhstan

In a vibrant celebration of cultural exchange, the “Silk and the Silk Road: From China to Kazakhstan” exhibition opened at the National Museum of Kazakhstan on June 16. As a flagship event of Kazakhstan’s “China Tourism Year,” it coincides with the second China-Central Asia Summit, marking a significant new chapter in cross-cultural dialogue.

（Exterior of the National Museum of Kazakhstan © China National Silk Museum）

The exhibition features 145 rare artifacts tracing 2,000 years of silk history, organized into three immersive sections: “The Origin of Silk,” “The Road of Silk,” and “The Use of Silk”. Among the highlights are 8th-century textiles showcasing remarkable craftsmanship, adorned with motifs that reflect the rich cultural fusion along the ancient Silk Roads.

（Exhibit from “Silk and the Silk Road” Exhibition © China National Silk Museum）

Visitors can also experience living traditions through “Beyond the Mulberry Fields: China Sericulture Intangible Cultural Heritages” — interactive demonstrations of UNESCO-listed silk techniques such as kesi (silk tapestry) and intricate embroidery performed by master artisans.

Beyond the gallery, scholars from both countries are gathering to explore strategies for preserving textile heritage, while Hanfu cultural activities bring the elegance of traditional Chinese dress to life across Astana.

The exhibition is part of the China National Silk Museum’s Global Showcase programme, following previous editions in seven countries, including France, Hungary, and Uzbekistan.

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