The Development of the Silk Industry

Silk, a natural fibre produced by a particular worm called a silkworm, has been used in clothing for many centuries. A When silk was first discovered in China over 4,500 years ago, it was reserved exclusively for the use of the emperor, his close relations and the very highest of his dignitaries. Within the palace, the emperor is believed to have worn a robe of white silk; outside, he, his principal wife, and the heir to the throne wore yellow, the colour of the earth. B Grad...