Objects

We associate the name of Helena Rubinstein - one of the richest and most influential women of her time, creator of a cosmetics empire that still exists today - with glamour, extensive social contacts, as well as an art collection and lavish outfits. What made Helena Rubinstein an almost iconic figure? How did the myth of the "empress of beauty" arise?

Hard work, entrepreneurship, punctuality, or tenacity in striving for the goal were of great significance in creating Helena Rubinstein's image as Madame. At the same time, she also became an icon of her time through her extravagance as well as love for fashion and jewellery. According to numerous biographies, the entrepreneur commissioned outfits from the most prominent designers for as long as she remained professionally active, until the last days of her life.

The "Lima" dress comes from the haute couture collection for autumn and winter 1954 (H. line) by Christian Dior. She posed in it during one of the photo shoots done in 1957. In addition to the exquisite creation designed by Christian Dior himself, on the set she was accompanied by pastels by Edgar Degas from her collection as well as one of her famous African masks.