Artwork

'Corso'

'Corso', by Marie-Louise Carven, 1951
'Corso', by Marie-Louise Carven, 1951

'Corso' is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1951 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

'Corso' is a sketch created in 1951 by Marie-Louise Carven, a French fashion designer. The work is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman wearing a long, flowing dress with a draped bodice and high slit, holding a small purse. The design reflects Carven's focus on elegant, wearable clothing for petite women.

Technique & Style

Executed in loose, warm brown lines, the sketch conveys a sense of spontaneity, suggesting it may be an initial design concept. The plain, light background allows the dress to be the focal point.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded the fashion house Carven in 1945 and was a pioneer in introducing prêt-à-porter lines among Parisian couturiers. The sketch is signed 'Corso', a nickname used by Carven.

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.