To celebrate the launch of Alan Chan’s first retail store in China “Alan Chan Creations” in Tianzifang Shanghai, a rare series of “Shanghai Ladies” advertising posters printed in early 20th century China are selected and exhibited in Gallery 27. The term “Shanghai Ladies” is generally used to describe painted advertising posters of movie stars, popular singers and models who were spokespersons of foreign products entering China market. To produce these posters, illustration studios flourished in Shanghai, derived a group of talented illustrators such as Hang Zhiying, Zheng Mantuo and Li Mubai. Novel printing techniques such as lithography and offset printing were introduced from the West and became popular ever since.

These uniquely-portrayed images in Art Deco style reflect the fashionable side of Chinese women. Their chic looks later become iconic symbols of modern Oriental beauty in the Western world, making the posters popular items among collectors locally and abroad.