Artwork
Neferka
Neferka is a drawing by Carven. It dates from 1959 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.
About this work
Overview
Neferka, attributed to the French fashion house Carven, dates from around 1959 and is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. The piece is a sketch that captures a contemporary women's outfit, rendered in a quick, gestural style that emphasizes line and color over detailed rendering.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a woman dressed in a striking two‑tone ensemble: a dark‑blue jacket adorned with an abstract pattern of greens and blues, paired with matching dark‑blue trousers. Accessories include a round hat, red lipstick, and modest black heels, suggesting a blend of elegance and everyday wear.
Technique & Style
Executed with loose, rapid strokes, the sketch features rough lines and a small rear‑view figure in the margin, indicating an exploratory approach. The use of bold, contrasting colors and simplified forms conveys a modern, playful aesthetic typical of mid‑century fashion illustration.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1959, the work entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains catalogued under the title Neferka. The handwritten label in the drawing’s corner confirms the name of the design.
Context
The illustration reflects post‑war French fashion trends, where designers like Carven experimented with vibrant palettes and streamlined silhouettes. Its informal, sketch‑like quality aligns with the era’s practice of presenting ideas quickly for internal review or client presentation.
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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