Artwork

Blé noir

Blé noir, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1951
Blé noir, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1951

Blé noir is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1951 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Blé noir is a fashion sketch created by Marie-Louise Carven around 1951. It is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman wearing a sleek black dress with a deep V-neck and matching skirt, accessorized with a white scarf and black heels. She stands confidently with one hand on her hip, drawing attention to her pose and outfit.

Technique & Style

The drawing is characterized by loose, quick lines and light shading that highlights the folds in the fabric, creating a simple yet effective representation of the design.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven, the founder of the Carven fashion house, was a pioneering French designer known for her work with lightweight fabrics and designs for petite women. She was among the first couturiers to introduce a prêt-à-porter line.

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.