Artwork
Cachemire
Cachemire is a drawing by Carven. It dates from 1957 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.
About this work
Overview
Created around 1957, “Cachemire” is an image attributed to the artist known as Carven. The work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is displayed as a representative example of mid‑century graphic illustration.
Subject & Meaning
Both characters extend their arms outward, their faces omitted, suggesting a focus on movement and costume rather than individual identity.
The composition presents two stylised figures dressed in vivid orange garments accented with green and brown motifs. The left figure turns away, wearing a sleeveless top and a long skirt capped by a prominent bow, while the right figure faces forward in a short dress of the same pattern. Both characters extend their arms outward, their faces omitted, suggesting a focus on movement and costume rather than individual identity.
Technique & Style
Carven employs a pared‑down visual language, relying on bold, clean lines and flat areas of colour. The lack of background detail—a plain white field—heightens the contrast between the bright outfits and the surrounding space, emphasizing the decorative qualities of the clothing.
History & Provenance
The piece dates to the late 1950s, a period marked by interest in ethnographic themes within European art circles. It entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings sometime after its creation, though specific acquisition details are not recorded in the available sources.
Artist & collection
Artist
These delicate ink-on-paper drawings capture the quiet poetry of everyday things: pinecones, reeds, apples.
Museum
Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris
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