24/01/2024
SILK MONEY OF THE GREAT SILK ROAD
So called Sultan's (Royal) paper because of its price, it was considered to be the standard quality throughout the Old World. It could exist for centuries like papyrus….
The production of the silk paper began in Samarkand at the end of the 7th - beginning of the 8th century. Then in Kazakhstan, near the Talas River, the Arabs fought with the Chinese. When the Arabs won, Chinese soldiers were captured, and among them were scientists and artisans. Thus, the secret technology of production was revealed. The money made of it functioned as international currency throughout the Silk Road stretching territories!
The ancient method of production was revived in Konigil (Samarkand’s suburb). It is made from mulberry or mulberry fibers. To do this, take annual branches, soak them for 2-3 days, then remove the bark. After this, the fibers are boiled for about five hours. The boiled fibers are crushed in a glass using water mills. The pulp is then soaked in rectangular molds. If necessary, tint with natural dyes. Then they put it under a press and then dry it. In summer it takes 3-4 hours to dry, in winter – 3-4 days. The paper is then polished using a stone or animals’ horns.
The peculiarity of mulberry is that it contains all the necessary ingredients - glue and starch. There is no need to add anything
Now, the center makes postcards, notebooks, handbags and even clothes. They also export. It is also purchased for the restoration of ancient books.
WELCOME TO EXPERIENCE THE SILK PAPER MAKING PROCESS!
