Artwork
Premier consul
Premier consul 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
Premier consul is a drawing attributed to the artist Carven, dated approximately to 1957. The piece is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. Executed as a quick, gestural sketch, it captures a solitary figure in profile, moving away from the viewer, and includes a marginal study of a jacket.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure is depicted in a long, dark coat cinched with a belt, short hair, gloves and low‑cut shoes, suggesting a formal or official attire. The inscription "Premier consul" placed in the corner may refer to the individual's rank or the style of the costume, hinting at a diplomatic or bureaucratic role.
Technique & Style
Carven employs a loose, rapid line quality, characteristic of spontaneous drawing. The primary figure is rendered with minimal detail, while a secondary, smaller sketch of a buttoned jacket appears to the right, emphasizing the artist’s exploratory approach. The use of cross‑hatching is suggested by the texture of the coat, adding tonal depth without a polished finish.
History & Provenance
Created around the late 1950s, Premier consul entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings at an unspecified date. The work reflects mid‑century interests in documenting contemporary dress and social roles, and its presence in an ethnographic collection underscores its value as a visual record of period attire and status symbols.
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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