Who painted Clairefontaine?

Clairefontaine was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1958.

Where can I see Clairefontaine?

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

Artwork

Clairefontaine

Marie-Louise Carven , 1958

Clairefontaine is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1958 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Clairefontaine is a fashion illustration created circa 1958 by French designer Marie‑Louise Carven. The drawing depicts a woman wearing a loose, pink coat with a high collar and a flared skirt, accompanied by simplified line studies of the garment’s front and back. The piece is part of the Museum of Ethnography’s collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch presents a poised figure whose hair is neatly gathered and who walks with one hand tucked into a pocket, suggesting a casual yet refined mode of dress. The practical silhouette and slightly retro detailing reflect Carven’s focus on wearable elegance for petite women.

Technique & Style

Rendered in ink and watercolor, the image combines a full‑figure rendering with technical line drawings, a method typical of mid‑century design studios. The use of soft pink hue and clean, minimal lines emphasizes both aesthetic appeal and construction clarity.

History & Provenance

Marie‑Louise Carven founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was an early adopter of ready‑to‑wear collections in Paris. Clairefontaine, produced around 1958, entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings, where it remains accessible for study.