Photographic collection related to Madame Song 與宋懷桂相關的影像藏品

Song Huai-Kuei (1937–2006), known as Madame Song, emerged as China’s inaugural fashion icon in the post-reform era. Born to a civil servant and his wife, she pursued painting at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, where she crossed paths with Maryn Varbanov (1932–1989). Returning to China in 1981 to assist Pierre Cardin in expanding his business, she assumed the role of Beijing's premier hostess, captivating guests at Cardin’s newly launched Maxim’s restaurant adorned in his haute couture creations.

In addition to her hosting duties, Madame Song established what is recognised as China’s first post-reform era modeling school. She remained active in the industry until her passing in March 2006. In her later years, she orchestrated and toured Five Dynasties, a live costume performance portraying Chinese history worldwide.
Madame Song’s impact extended beyond the realm of fashion in China, shaping contemporary culture domestically and promoting traditional Chinese culture internationally. This sub-fonds encompasses materials related to Pierre Cardin’s engagements in China, including fashion events and the inauguration of Maxim’s in Beijing. The core of the Madame Song collection comprises photographs capturing various events and notable visitors at Maxim’s from the 1980s to the 2000s, featuring renowned figures such as Jacques Chirac, Alain Delon, Bernardo Bertolucci, Quentin Tarantino, and others. Additionally, there are photo sets documenting Madame Song’s Five Dynasties performance show during its global tour, as well as her involvement in fashion shows in China and abroad, and multiple visits to France.