Technical courses     Publications Specialized Groups     Research Library Egypt, 3rd-4th century A.D.: Lyon, Musée des Tissus et des Arts décoratifs, part of fabric with face in medallion. Inv. 24410. France, 18th century: Como, Fondazione Antonio Ratti, figured silk fabric, Lyon circa 1740. Inv. AS 327a. France, circa 1750: Lyon, Musée des Tissus et des Arts décoratifs, detail, embroidered waistcoat. Inv. 29791-0-2. Centre International d'Etude des Textiles Anciens The CIETA is an international association founded in 1954 in order to coordinate work methods used by specialists in ancient textiles. Its base is in Lyon, France. Two official languages are used: French and English. Membership application file, subscriptions and organization A better knowledge of ancient textiles   To promote on an international level all activities leading to a better knowledge of ancient textiles. To coordinate every country’s efforts to produce a corpus of the ancient textiles and to elaborate a method of analysis. Developing a standard method and common language on ancient textiles   The CIETA Technical Dossier: the association has developed a standard descriptive method in use all over the world.   The Vocabulary of textile technical terms of the CIETA in 9 languages (draft project for an International Vocabulary): a common technical language for specialists in ancient textiles to improve communication. 525 specialists members belonging to 34 different nations   They are specialists in ancient textiles, holding positions such as curator, conservator, archaeologist, weaver, teacher or researcher and they often represent major museums or institutions. Current events: periodical publications   The CIETA keeps its members informed about textile research through periodical publications: a yearly Bulletin and two Gazettes give regular news of CIETA research and meetings, specialists groups as well as a list of publications, exhibitions and news of the museums or institutions. Training   The CIETA trains specialists in methods of analysis through its twice yearly Technical Sessions. Research   CIETA meetings: international meetings are held every other year in a different city to evaluate progress made in the field of textile research.