Iris was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1951.

Where can I see Iris?

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

Artwork

Iris

Marie-Louise Carven , 1951

Iris 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

Iris, created circa 1951, is a fashion sketch by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house. The piece is now part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman in a loose, flared, purple dress and wide-brimmed hat, conveying Carven's signature emphasis on petite women's fashion with lightweight, effortless designs.

Technique & Style

Characterized by simple, confident lines and soft shading to suggest fabric folds, the drawing appears to be a quick, preliminary concept rather than a finished work.

History & Provenance

Originally created by Marie-Louise Carven around 1951, the sketch is signed 'colette R.', possibly a nickname or abbreviation. It is now housed at the Museum of Ethnography.

Context

Reflecting early 1950s Parisian couture, 'Iris' represents Carven's pioneering work in prêt-à-porter lines among Parisian couturiers, balancing accessibility with haute couture aesthetics.