Artwork

Cassis

Cassis, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1953
Cassis, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1953

Cassis is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1953 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

This image is reminiscent of the work of Marie-Louise Carven, who was known for her fashion designs and illustrations.

The image depicts a woman in a stylish outfit, with her hands on her hips. She is wearing a plaid jacket and matching skirt, paired with black gloves and heels. The background of the image is a light beige color.

The woman's attire appears to be from the mid-20th century, with a classic and elegant design. The plaid pattern on her jacket and skirt adds a touch of sophistication to her overall look.

This image is reminiscent of the work of Marie-Louise Carven, who was known for her fashion designs and illustrations.

Overview

The work titled *Cassis* is a mid‑century fashion illustration produced circa 1953. It portrays a woman standing confidently with hands on her hips, dressed in a coordinated plaid jacket and skirt, complemented by black gloves and heels against a muted beige backdrop. The image reflects the refined aesthetic associated with post‑war French ready‑to‑wear design.

Subject & Meaning

The figure embodies the elegance and poise that Marie‑Louise Carven sought for her clientele, particularly petite women. The poised stance and harmonious colour scheme convey a sense of self‑assurance, while the plaid pattern adds a subtle decorative element that balances modernity with classic tailoring.

Technique & Style

Executed in a clean, illustrative manner, the drawing employs precise line work to delineate the garment’s structure and fabric drape. The limited palette—primarily neutrals with the stark black accessories—highlights the silhouette, while the plaid motif introduces visual rhythm without overwhelming the composition.

History & Provenance

Created by Carven, who founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was among the first Parisian couturiers to launch a prêt‑à‑porter line, *Cassis* entered the Museum of Ethnography’s collection where it remains on display. The piece offers insight into the designer’s approach to accessible yet sophisticated fashion during the early 1950s.

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.