Do you know the fabulous history of stockings? Maison Rouge, this former silk spinning mill listed as a historic monument, offers us a journey into the hosiery industry in Nîmes and the Cévennes . Here stockings are celebrated in all their forms and from every angle in a journey that tells us not only the fascinating process of their manufacturing, from their design to their export throughout the world, but also the great moments of history which mark their evolution in society. Because if today, the bottom is certainly associated with the world of femininity, it was not always this way. Until the Revolution, the classic silk stocking was part of the male costume, and was worn under tight breeches above the knees. It was only after the appearance of long pants that bottoms gradually entered the women's wardrobe. Discreet at first under Empire dresses, it will become more and more visible and sophisticated, following the fashion for skirts that shorten, revealing – while dressing – the curve from the calf to the top of the thigh. Irresistible fashion accessories, delicately embroidered with gold thread, hand painted, adorned with pearls or encrusted with lace, stockings become true works of art. Here we admire a hundred exceptional stockings, treasures of our history and our heritage, carefully made and remarkably preserved, telling us about the evolution of the techniques of an art of astonishing complexity.

How can you not be moved by this profession dating from the 18th century, a precious testimony to a bygone golden age? We will also learn that it was in 1589 that the English pastor William Lee invented the first craft to make stockings. Its complexity is such that it will take nearly 70 years before the French succeed in copying this mechanical profession and an additional fifteen years to train the master manufacturers. It was only after a royal decree in the 18th century that Nîmes and the Cévennes were among the jealously chosen localities to be authorized to create this ultimate symbol of elegance and refinement that the world was fighting for. From incredibly preserved red stockings dating from the 17th century to new generations of sexy and daring stockings produced in the region, including pieces of incredible sophistication reminding us of the department store stalls of the 19th century, we are happily carried away by this fascinating history of luxury and French fashion.

MAISON ROUGE - MUSEUM OF THE CÉVENOLE VALLEYS
Until August 18, 2024
5 rue de l’Industrie, 30270 Saint-Jean-du-Gard
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