Artwork
'Capulet'

'Capulet' 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
Capulet is a fashion drawing created in 1949 by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house. It is now part of the collection at the Museum of Ethnography.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing portrays a woman in a dark, V-neck dress with short sleeves and a white collar, emphasizing the attire rather than the subject's facial expression or environment. It serves as a study of women's fashion during that period, highlighting Carven's design aesthetic.
Technique & Style
Executed in a simple, clean-lined style with minimal detail, the drawing focuses attention on the woman's pose and clothing. The light background contrasts with the dark dress, drawing emphasis to the outfit.
History & Provenance
Created in 1949 by Marie-Louise Carven, Capulet is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection. Carven was notable for designing for petite women and introducing prêt-à-porter lines, influencing accessible haute couture.
Context
Capulet reflects the post-war fashion trends of the late 1940s, characterized by the return to more feminine silhouettes after wartime austerity. Carven's use of lightweight fabrics (though not specified in this piece) was also emblematic of the era's shift towards comfort and practicality in high fashion.
Legacy
As part of Carven's oeuvre, Capulet contributes to the historical record of mid-20th-century French fashion, showcasing the designer's contribution to making haute couture more inclusive for petite women and paving the way for ready-to-wear fashion.
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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