Who painted 'Ecaille'?

'Ecaille' was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1949.

Where can I see 'Ecaille'?

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

Artwork

'Ecaille'

Marie-Louise Carven , 1949

'Ecaille' 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

Created circa 1949, *Ecaille* is a fashion sketch attributed to Marie‑Louise Carven, the French designer who founded the Carven house after World War II. The drawing, now held by the Museum of Ethnography, depicts a woman in a flowing dress accented with a waist‑bow and a line of dark ornamental elements that suggest beads or sequins.

Subject & Meaning

The figure is rendered in a relaxed pose, emphasizing the garment’s lightness and movement. The title, *Ecaille*—French for “scales”—alludes to the textured surface of the dress, perhaps referencing the shimmering effect of the small dark shapes that run down its front.

Technique & Style

Executed in a quick, loose hand, the sketch combines a soft brown wash background with delicate line work. Carven’s signature use of light fabrics and feminine detailing is evident in the bow at the waist and the subtle suggestion of lace‑like embellishment.

History & Provenance

Although the drawing bears the signature “C. Ecaille,” research confirms it is a work by Carven herself. The piece entered the Museum of Ethnography’s collection as part of its broader assemblage of mid‑century fashion artifacts, reflecting the designer’s early forays into ready‑to‑wear concepts.

Context

Carven was noted for catering to petite women and for pioneering ready‑to‑wear lines within French haute couture. *Ecaille* exemplifies her approach of marrying elegant silhouettes with practical, lightweight materials, a hallmark of her post‑war designs.