A Brief Discussion on the Development of the Silk-Weaving Industry Along the “Southern Silk Road” in Yunnan

Abstract

Ancient Yunnan was one of the most significant regions along China’s ancient “Southern Silk Road.” During the Nanzhao period(738–902) of the late Tang Dynasty, Yunnan’s silk-weaving industry underwent a qualitative leap as skilled silk craftsmen from the Bashu area migrated to Yunnan and introduced mulberry planting, silkworm breeding, and advanced silk-weaving techniques from Sichuan to the region. Consequently, people in Yunnan gradually acquired expertise in brocade weaving and embroidery. Many even mastered complex silk-weaving techniques. The development and progress of the silk-weaving industry in the ancient Yunnan region were intricately linked to the economic function and value of silk as both a commodity and currency along the “Southern Silk Road.” The local government in ancient Yunnan was greatly motivated by the economic interests brought by the development of silk-related industries and recognized the significance of developing the local silk industry. They even initiated a campaign to capture skilled silk craftsmen from Sichuan, aiming to foster the growth of the silk-weaving industry in Yunnan. After years of dedicated efforts from the local government in ancient Yunnan, the region emerged as a significant hub for silk production along China’s ancient “Southern Silk Road.” Despite the devastation caused by the wars in other parts of the country, Yunnan’s silk industry continued to thrive and provide ample silk products to sustain trade along this renowned route. In the contemporary era, amidst the decline of the silk-weaving industry in eastern China, Yunnan has proposed an industrial development strategy known as “relocating the silk-weaving industry from east to west.” This involves introducing advanced silk production techniques from the eastern regions into Yunnan to enhance and enrich its local silk industry, thereby establishing it as a traditional national sector and securing a competitive position within the global silk market. The historical experience of Yunnan’s silk industry demonstrated that economic development opportunities can only be seized through proactive endeavors rather than passive anticipation. The modern Yunnan silk industry, which upholds its historical traditions, continues to actively engage in international high-end technical cooperation, thus ensuring the enduring vitality of the ancient “Southern Silk Road.”