Artwork

'Bout de zan'

'Bout de zan', by Marie-Louise Carven, 1949
'Bout de zan', by Marie-Louise Carven, 1949

'Bout de zan' 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.

About this work

Overview

'Bout de zan' is a 1949 fashion illustration by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the House of Carven. The work is a drawing of a woman in a black outfit with a distinctive hat.

Subject & Meaning

The illustration depicts a woman wearing a sleek black dress with a fitted waist and flared skirt, accompanied by a wide-brimmed hat with a loose veil. The outfit's design reflects Carven's focus on petite figures and use of simple, elegant materials.

Technique & Style

The drawing is characterized by loose, confident lines and quick strokes, imbuing the image with energy. The contrast between the clean lines of the outfit and the swirling, chaotic lines of the veil creates visual interest.

History & Provenance

Created in 1949, 'Bout de zan' is a product of the post-war period, a time when ready-to-wear was emerging in Paris. The work is now part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

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.