Artwork

Albâtre

Albâtre, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1965
Albâtre, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1965

Albâtre is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1965 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Albâtre is a drawing created by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven around 1965. It is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a simplified figure wearing a long, light-blue coat with a distinctive hat or helmet. The face is largely blank, with only a small line indicating a mouth. The title 'Albâtre' may refer to alabaster, a pale stone, potentially alluding to the figure's simplicity or the color palette.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by clean lines and flat colors, giving it a sketch-like quality. This style is consistent with Carven's background as a fashion designer, suggesting that Albâtre may be a design concept or study rather than a detailed portrait.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded the house of Carven in 1945 and was known for her designs for petite women and use of lightweight fabrics. She was among the first couturiers to introduce a prêt-à-porter line, reflecting her innovative approach to fashion.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Marie-Louise Carven

Artist

Marie-Louise Carven

Marie-Louise Carven (31 August 1909 – 8 June 2015), born Carmen de Tommaso, was a French fashion designer who founded the house of Carven in 1945.