Over 300 French exhibits coming to Palace Museum

Rachael Ng

Over 300 exhibits of French costumes, jewelry and accessories from the late 18th to the early 20th centuries will be displayed at the Hong Kong Palace Museum's new exhibition from June 26 to October 14.

These remarkable pieces, on loan from the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris, will be displayed in Asia for the first time, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history of French fashion and the interplay between cultures in shaping its evolution.

"This exhibition is to celebrate the links that have united China and France for 60 years," said Christine Macel, director of Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Paris.

Titled The Adorned Body: French Fashion and Jewellery 1770-1910 from the Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Paris, the exhibition aims to recreate the dressing styles of both men and women in France during various occasions.

The design concept draws inspiration from children dressing their dolls, offering a whimsical approach to showcasing the exhibits.

A major highlight of the exhibition is a luxurious dress created by Charles Frederick Worth, widely regarded as the father of haute couture. Worth was a pioneer in the fashion industry, introducing live models to showcase his designs.

His prestigious clientele included notable figures such as the wife of Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie.

Another noteworthy exhibit is an 18th-century indoor jacket worn by an aristocratic man. The jacket, made of French silk, was inspired by prized silk textiles from China. This piece exemplifies the interplay of cultures, as Chinese silk was highly admired and sought after as a luxury item in France at the time.

The exhibition also serves as a reminder of the global network of trade and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

To enhance the visitor experience, the exhibition will incorporate innovative and interactive multimedia features.

Excerpts from award-winning movies will be showcased throughout the exhibit, featuring the occasions on which the displayed costumes and jewelry were worn. Visitors will also have the opportunity to virtually "try on" the exhibited clothing, accessories, and jewelry pieces in a dressing room-like environment.

The exhibition not only celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France but also represents one of the four major exhibitions in the West Kowloon Cultural District this year.

Tickets for this special exhibition are priced at HK$150 for adults and HK$75 for concessions.

rachael.ng@singtaonewscorp.com