Riyoko Ikeda has made history through her art, contributing to the world’s education on French History and Queen Marie Antoinette.
She conducts her life in every artistic way as a designer, writer, comedian and singer, and is the author of the very famous Versailles Rose (ベルサイユのばら) written between 1972 and 1973. This masterpiece had deeply moved the manga era of the 70s by offering a romantic story based on historic background and promoting women emancipation. In view of its triumph with the public, the graphic novel was then re-transcribed into an animated movie under the name of Lady Oscar.
Her impacting work has been honored by the French Embassy that decorated her in 2008 with the French Legion of Honor, which is the highest French order of merit. Indeed, she has played an historic role in promoting French history around the world and depicting it through art.
Nina’s Paris and Ikeda Riyoko have maintained close relationship since Mme Riyoko first participation to Nina’s annual event: la Fête de Versailles (Versailles Party).
Mme Riyoko was the very special guest to the Fête de Versailles organized in 2013 by Nina’s and le Potager du Roi at the French institute in Tokyo. Theme of this year event was then “Future of History” and Nina’s Paris was very delighted to share this special moment with the author of Versailles Rose. Nina’s original belongings of Marie Antoinette such as the missing shoe and the letter were presented at the event to its special guests accompanied by an exposition of some dresses of the Court.
The Fête of Versailles 2019 has also been held in honor of Mme Riyoko at Bachelor Hall in Tokyo. Many guests came dressed in beautiful Versailles dress and an orchestra played music along with some dancers. This ball honors art and Ikeda Riyoko’s work, inspiring other women through Marie Antoinette leadership and putting in light women creativity.
