At 34 Rue de la Charité in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement, the Musée des Tissus et des Arts Décoratifs brings together textile history and decorative arts. Lyon’s silk industry takes centre stage, alongside fabrics, costumes and tapestries from other eras and regions. Look for the punch-card Jacquard loom to see a piece of weaving technology, then explore decorative objects such as ceramics and clocks. The collections span from ancient textiles to more recent design, giving you a wider view of the craft than Lyon silk alone.
Lyon’s silk trade and the textile collection
Lyon’s silk industry is the clearest thread running through the Musée des Tissus. The city’s history as a silk-producing centre is represented in fabrics and objects that show the skill behind weaving and textile design.
The collection reaches beyond Lyon, with material from different parts of the world and periods ranging from antiquity to more recent history. Fabrics from ancient Greece and Rome sit within a broader story of textile production, while costumes and tapestries bring the craft into view in larger, more tangible forms.
The Jacquard loom and decorative arts
A punch-card Jacquard loom is among the objects to look for. Its presence connects Lyon’s silk heritage with the machinery used in weaving and gives the textile displays a practical point of reference.
The decorative arts collection adds another dimension to the visit. Ceramics, clocks and other objects sit alongside textiles, and the museum’s holdings also include furniture, carpets, lace and porcelain. Together, the two collections cover both the materials used in everyday and formal settings and the objects made to furnish them.
The historic museum buildings
The museum’s collections have been associated with two 18th-century town houses. The buildings date to the 1730s, placing the displays in a historic setting in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement. The museum was established in 1864 at 34 Rue de la Charité.
The supplied information reports that the museum is closed for renovation until 2027. Check its current status before travelling to the address, as the collections and access arrangements may be affected during the works.
FAQ
Where is the Musée des Tissus et des Arts Décoratifs?
It is at 34 Rue de la Charité in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement.
What can you see at the museum?
The collections include Lyon silk, historic fabrics, costumes, tapestries and decorative arts such as ceramics and clocks. A punch-card Jacquard loom is also on display.
Is the museum open?
The supplied information says it is closed for renovation until 2027. Check its current status before visiting.
Should I book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended in the supplied visitor information.
