Artwork

Dorothée

Dorothée, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1964
Dorothée, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1964

Dorothée is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1964 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Dorothée is a drawing created by Marie-Louise Carven, a French fashion designer, around 1964. It depicts two women in swimsuits and is characterized by quick, confident lines and subtle shading.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows two women standing together, wearing sleeveless swimsuits with different patterns. The subjects' natural poses and simple hairstyles suggest a casual, relaxed atmosphere.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of confident lines and subtle shading creates a sense of depth and movement. The drawing's style reflects Carven's experience with fashion design, particularly her use of delicate materials and attention to detail.

History & Provenance

The drawing is held in the Museum of Ethnography and is signed 'Dorothée' in the corner, which may be the title of the work or the name of one of the subjects.

Context

Carven was a pioneering Parisian couturier who introduced a prêt-à-porter line in the mid-20th century, and her work often featured lightweight fabrics and designs for petite women.

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.