This entirely wooden drawloom, replica of a 13th century loom, is used to make brocade. It requires two people to operate: a puller, who lifts certain warp threads, and a weaver. Although simple in concept, the operation requires physical strength and exceptional dexterity. No more than a few centimeters are woven per day, and it takes weeks to make a silk dress in the style of the Emperors.
It was donated to the museum by the municipality of Wujiang, twinned with Bourgoin-Jallieu.
- Brocade: a patterned fabric, embellished with gold or silver thread depicting flowers, foliage or any other embellishment with one or more metal wefts. A Yuan brocade woven with this loom is on display in the Chapel.