Artwork

Fabiola

Fabiola, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1958
Fabiola, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1958

Fabiola 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

Fabiola is a portrait drawing created around 1958 by Marie-Louise Carven, a French fashion designer. The work is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman wearing a loose, light-gray coat with a simple design, walking with one hand in her pocket. The subject's neat hairstyle and casual yet stylish attire convey a sense of effortless elegance.

Technique & Style

The sketch is characterized by quick, loose pencil strokes, with additional rough sketches of the coat's details in the corners. The artist's use of simple, expressive lines captures the essence of the subject's attire and demeanor.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded her fashion house in 1945, becoming known for designs suited to smaller frames, often incorporating delicate fabrics. Fabiola reflects her background in haute couture and her role in pioneering prêt-à-porter.

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.