Jabot was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1956.

Where can I see Jabot?

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

Artwork

Jabot

Marie-Louise Carven , 1956

Jabot is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1956 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1956, the drawing titled Jabot is attributed to French designer Marie‑Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house in 1945. The work is part of the Museum of Ethnography’s collection and exemplifies Carven’s blend of lightness and practicality in mid‑century women’s clothing.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman dressed in a dark navy suit, accented by a crisp white collar, tie, matching hat with a small bow, and long gloves. She stands with one leg crossed at the ankle, her left arm raised as if caught mid‑step, suggesting movement and confidence within a refined silhouette.

Technique & Style

Rendered in loose, sketch‑like lines, the image conveys the immediacy of a fashion illustration rather than a finished rendering. The emphasis on the white collar—referred to in the title—highlights Carven’s attention to delicate detailing while maintaining a streamlined, ready‑to‑wear aesthetic.

History & Provenance

Carven, born Carmen de Tommaso, built a reputation for designing for petite women and for pioneering one of Paris’s earliest prêt‑à‑porter lines. Jabot reflects this legacy, marrying playful detail with functional elegance, and was later acquired by the Museum of Ethnography, where it remains on view.

Context

The mid‑1950s saw a shift toward accessible fashion, with designers like Carven introducing lighter fabrics such as lace and gingham into everyday wardrobes. Jabot illustrates this transition, presenting a sophisticated yet approachable look that aligns with the era’s move toward ready‑made, yet stylish, attire.