'Azur' was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1949.

Where can I see 'Azur'?

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

Artwork

'Azur'

Marie-Louise Carven , 1949

'Azur' is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1949 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris. Created in 1949, “Azur” is a quick sketch by French fashion designer Marie‑Louise Carven, originally born Carmen de Tommaso.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1949, “Azur” is a quick sketch by French fashion designer Marie‑Louise Carven, originally born Carmen de Tommaso. The work is held by the Museum of Ethnography and exemplifies Carven’s early interest in translating garment ideas into rapid visual studies.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman wearing a long, flowing dress with wide sleeves and a cinched waist. Her hands rest on her hips, and she is adorned only with a simple ring and bracelet, suggesting an emphasis on the garment’s silhouette rather than elaborate ornamentation.

Technique & Style

Executed with loose, swift lines and modest shading, the sketch conveys volume and movement without fine detail. The artist’s signature, placed in the corner, reads “Azur,” possibly alluding to the cool, blue‑gray palette suggested by the title.

History & Provenance

Carven, who founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945, produced “Azur” during the early years of her career, a period when she was pioneering ready‑to‑wear collections in Paris. The piece later entered the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it remains on display.

Context

At the time of its creation, Carven was known for designing for petite women and for employing lightweight fabrics such as lace and pink gingham. The sketch reflects her focus on fluid, airy garments and her practice of using rapid studies to develop fashion concepts.

Artist & collection

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.

Museum

Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris

Continue through works from the same source collection.