The diagrams illustrate the life cycle of the silkworm and the process involved in producing silk cloth. Overall, the life cycle consists of four main stages, from egg to moth, while silk production follows a systematic procedure involving the selection, boiling, unwinding, twisting, and weaving of silk threads.
The first diagram shows the natural life cycle of the silkworm. It begins when moths lay eggs, which hatch into larvae within ten days. These larvae primarily feed on mulberry leaves and continue to grow for about four to six weeks. After this stage, they spin silk threads around themselves, forming cocoons in approximately three to eight days. The cocoon stage lasts 16 days, after which the adult moth emerges, completing the cycle.
The second diagram depicts the commercial production of silk fabric. Initially, suitable cocoons are selected, after which they are boiled in water to loosen the silk fibers. These fibers are then unwound, producing threads ranging from 300 to 900 meters in length. Once unwound, the silk strands are twisted to increase their strength before being woven into fabric. Finally, the finished silk cloth is often dyed to achieve the desired color.