Who painted Fraisette?

Fraisette was painted by Carven in 1951.

Where can I see Fraisette?

Fraisette is held by Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

Artwork

Fraisette

Carven , 1951

Fraisette is a drawing by Carven. It dates from 1951 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 1951, “Fraisette” is a modestly sized illustration by the French fashion house Carven. The image is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is displayed as an example of mid‑century fashion drawing. The work’s title appears in the lower corner, suggesting a reference to the garment depicted.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing portrays a woman standing with her arms crossed, dressed in a loose, light‑blue dress that falls in a wide skirt. The garment’s hem is adorned with small green and pink floral motifs. She wears a large green hat and black high‑heeled shoes, presenting a stylized vision of contemporary feminine elegance.

Technique & Style

Rendered with bold, confident lines and flat areas of colour, the composition emphasizes clarity over detail. The palette is limited to a few saturated hues, allowing the silhouette of the dress and accessories to dominate. The simplicity of the drawing reflects the streamlined aesthetic favored by Carven in the early 1950s.

History & Provenance

The piece was produced by Carven, a leading Parisian fashion house, during a period when the brand was expanding its visual identity. It entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings sometime after its creation, though the exact acquisition date is not recorded. The work remains in the museum’s permanent collection.

Context

In the post‑war era, French fashion emphasized practicality combined with refined style, a principle embodied in Carven’s designs. “Fraisette” illustrates this approach, showcasing a dress that balances comfort—a loose cut and airy fabric—with decorative elements such as the floral hem and coordinated accessories, reflecting the period’s shift toward accessible yet sophisticated attire.