Lutetia was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1962.

Where can I see Lutetia?

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

Artwork

Lutetia

Marie-Louise Carven , 1962

Lutetia is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1962 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1962, *Lutetia* is a fashion illustration by French designer Marie‑Louise Carven. The image presents a rear view of a woman dressed in a dark silhouette patterned with tiny white blossoms, a white bow at the waist, and high‑heeled shoes. The figure’s hair is gathered in an up‑do, emphasizing the garment’s line and the elegance of the overall composition.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing focuses on the poise of a petite, well‑dressed woman, highlighting Carven’s dedication to flattering silhouettes for smaller frames. By portraying the subject from behind, the work draws attention to the cut, detailing of the dress, and the subtle contrast between dark fabric and white accents, underscoring the designer’s interest in refined, understated femininity.

Technique & Style

Carven employs a restrained palette of deep tones punctuated by crisp white elements, creating visual balance without overwhelming the viewer. The line work is clean and precise, delineating the dress’s floral pattern and the bow’s geometry. This simplicity of color and form reflects the designer’s broader aesthetic of lightweight, elegant construction.

History & Provenance

Marie‑Louise Carven founded her eponymous house in 1945 and was among the first Parisian couturiers to launch a ready‑to‑wear line. *Lutetia* was produced in the early 1960s, a period when Carven was expanding her reputation for petite‑friendly designs. The illustration now belongs to the Museum of Ethnography’s collection, where it is displayed as part of the institution’s fashion holdings.

Context

The early 1960s marked a shift in Parisian fashion toward more accessible, ready‑to‑wear garments, and Carven’s work exemplified this transition. *Lutetia* reflects the era’s move away from elaborate couture toward streamlined, wearable elegance, aligning with broader cultural trends that favored practicality without sacrificing style.