Artwork

Leda

Leda, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1956
Leda, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1956

Leda 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

Leda is a drawing created by Marie-Louise Carven, a French fashion designer, around 1956. It is a fashion illustration held in the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman wearing a black dress with a V-neckline, white gloves, and heels, with a hat featuring a white band. The subject is presented against a light beige background, emphasizing her attire and accessories.

Technique & Style

The illustration showcases attention to detail in the woman's clothing and accessories, characteristic of Carven's work with lightweight fabrics and designs for petite women.

History & Provenance

Carven founded the fashion house Carven in 1945 and was among the first Parisian couturiers to introduce a prêt-à-porter line, reflecting her influence on mid-20th-century fashion.

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.