An exhibition dedicated to French singer Edith Piaf, whose ballads of love and sorrow made her an international star, has opened in Paris to mark 100 years since her birth.

Hundreds of posters, letters, manuscripts, photographs, film clips and even her signature black dress are among the 400 items on display at the National Library of France. "Piaf", which opened officially on Tuesday, retraces the singer's life, from her humble beginnings as the daughter of travelling performers to fame. Each visitor is equipped with an audio device guiding them through themes such as "A woman of the people", "A voice", "A hymn to love" and "Piaf, the phenomenon and the legend".