Shiseido Woman and Pekinese Dogs poster – My Dear Cigarettes advert – c1930

Shiseido Woman and Pekinese Dogs poster – My Dear Cigarettes advert – c1930 This iconic Shiseido Woman and Pekinese Dogs poster from the 1920s offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era. It features a young Chinese woman reclining on a chaise longue, elegantly smoking a cigarette in a modern 1920s setting. Two charming Pekinese dogs are included in the scene. The poster’s power comes from the woman’s Western-style clothing, which embodies a cultural crossroads where traditional Chinese sensibilities met the burgeoning influence of Western fashion. This fashion shift mirrored the broader changes sweeping China after the 1911 revolution and the push for modernization. The Evolution of Fashion: From Hanfu to Qipao Before the revolution, the flowing Hanfu was the dominant form of dress. The Shiseido Woman and Pekinese Dogs poster stands as a testament to the rise of the qipao (cheongsam), a figure-hugging dress that gained popularity, especially among urban women embracing a modern lifestyle. Influences of the Roaring Twenties The 1920s, with their spirit of liberation and cultural exchange, fueled this fashion evolution. The Shiseido Woman and Pekinese Dogs poster perfectly captures this essence. The woman’s flapper-style haircut, vibrant red lips, and high heels reflect the influence of Western trends, while the presence of cigarettes speaks to the era’s newfound indulgence. The Shiseido Woman in this poster is a perfect example of this cultural shift. Beyond the Surface: Shanghai Poster Art The Shiseido Woman and Pekinese Dogs poster was more than just an advertisement; it was a work of art. This style, known as “Shanghai posters,” was a distinct genre characterized by alluring imagery of modern Chinese women, often in qipaos, promoting various products. These posters were visually captivating and served as social commentaries, reflecting the aspirations and anxieties of a changing China. A Legacy that Endures The Shiseido Woman and Pekinese Dogs poster remains a powerful symbol of a pivotal era in Chinese history. It transcends its commercial origins, offering a window into the cultural transformation, the embrace of Western influences, and the emergence of a modern Chinese identity. The Shiseido Woman is an enduring image. So, the next time you encounter this iconic poster, take a moment to appreciate its rich historical context and the captivating story it tells.