Cabourg was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1956.

Where can I see Cabourg?

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

Artwork

Cabourg

Marie-Louise Carven , 1956

Cabourg is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1956 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 1956 by French designer Marie‑Louise Carven, the drawing titled *Cabourg* depicts a solitary female figure dressed in a contemporary ensemble. The image is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is presented as an example of mid‑century fashion illustration.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a woman in a beige, short‑sleeved top paired with a wide, red skirt that billows outward. She rests her hands on her hips and balances on one leg, a pose that conveys poise and self‑assurance, highlighting the garment’s silhouette rather than any narrative setting.

Technique & Style

Carven employs swift, gestural lines to outline the figure, leaving portions of the sketch unfilled while applying flat washes of colour to the skirt and top. The contrast between the vivid red of the skirt and the muted background draws immediate attention to the clothing, reflecting the designer’s emphasis on fabric and form.

History & Provenance

Marie‑Louise Carven, who founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945, was among the early couturiers to launch a ready‑to‑wear line, bridging haute couture and mass market. *Cabourg* was produced during this innovative period and later entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings, where it remains accessible for study of post‑war French fashion.