Gavotte was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1953.

Where can I see Gavotte?

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

Artwork

Gavotte

Marie-Louise Carven , 1953

Gavotte is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1953 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Gavotte is a fashion sketch created by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the House of Carven, circa 1953. The work is now part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman in a relaxed pose wearing a light blue, yellow-dotted dress with a fitted, V-neck top and flared, ankle-length skirt. The subject's attire reflects Carven's design ethos, catering to petite women with lightweight fabrics.

Technique & Style

Executed with loose yet confident lines, the sketch contrasts quick, expressive strokes for the dress with softer, more nuanced shading for the model's skin and arms. The title 'Gavotte' is handwritten in the corner.

History & Provenance

Created around 1953 by Marie-Louise Carven, a pioneering figure in Parisian prêt-à-porter, Gavotte is housed in the Museum of Ethnography, highlighting its recognized cultural and historical significance.

Context

This work embodies the early 1950s Parisian fashion scene, where Carven's designs stood out for their accessibility through prêt-à-porter and attention to the needs of petite women, often incorporating lightweight materials like lace and gingham.