Artwork
Ariane

Ariane is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1961 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.
About this work
Overview
Created circa 1961, *Ariane* is a fashion illustration by French designer Marie-Louise Carven. The drawing is part of the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings and exemplifies Carven’s focus on lightweight garments suited to petite figures.
Subject & Meaning
The sketch portrays a woman wearing a loose, flowing dress with a high neckline, puffed sleeves, and a short, flared skirt edged with a row of ruffles. Her hair is styled in an up‑do bun, and she holds a small handbag, suggesting everyday elegance.
Technique & Style
Carven employs swift, light strokes to convey the texture and movement of the fabric. The rendering is simple yet detailed, with subtle floral motifs near the sleeves and hem, and the use of line suggests the material’s softness.
History & Provenance
Marie-Louise Carven founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was among the first Parisian couturiers to launch a ready‑to‑wear line. *Ariane* reflects her early 1960s design ethos and now resides in the Museum of Ethnography’s collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
Museum
Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris
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