This classic photo by Man Ray is part of the exhibit in Hamburg. Credit: Chanel mit Zigarette, 1935. © VG Bildkunst Bonn, 2014, & Man Ray Trust.

BY JORDAN CLARY

The Chanel Legend, an exhibit at the Museum Für Kunst Und Gewerbe Hamburg, explores Madam Coco Chanel’s mystique during pre- and post-World War II years, and follows it with a look at how Karl Lagerfeld has modernized the brand. Although Coco Chanel was not the first to design a simple black dress for day, as well as evening, wear, the “little black dress” has become almost synonymous with the Chanel legend. One result of the simplicity of clothing design is that it creates the perfect canvas for accessories. The clothing is simple and practical, but the jewelry is often extravagantly playful. The exhibit contains approximately 50 pieces of jewelry from 1925 through 1971. It runs through May 18.

—April 23, 2014