Silk Painting How to

Silk History

Silk painting has a long history with origins in Asia long before canvas or paper was used.  Records indicate that silk has been in production before 6803 BC. The oldest known piece of surviving silk is from 3630 BC and there are examples of still brightly colored silk found in China from the third and fourth century BC.


There was a resurgence of interest in silk painting in France in the early 19th century with the discovery of gutta. Painters were again drawn to silk painting in Europe in the 1980's and 1990's and more recently in the United States.


Silk art can be used for paintings, interior décor, and wearables, including scarves.