Artwork

Ma griffe

Ma griffe, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1956
Ma griffe, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1956

Ma griffe 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

The dress features a pattern of oval shapes, possibly flowers or leaves, in a lighter shade of white.

This drawing depicts a woman in a white dress, with a full skirt and a strapless top. The dress features a pattern of oval shapes, possibly flowers or leaves, in a lighter shade of white. The woman's face is not visible, and her hair is styled in a neat, curved shape.

The dress appears to be a formal gown, with a fitted bodice and a full, flared skirt. The pattern on the dress adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. The overall effect is one of refinement and poise.

The drawing is a beautiful example of fashion illustration from the mid-20th century. To learn more about the artist's work, look up Marie-Louise Carven.

Overview

Ma griffe, created in 1956 by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven, is a fashion illustration depicting a woman in a formal, strapless white gown with a full skirt and oval-patterned details.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a woman with an obscured face and neatly styled hair, embodies refinement and poise in a design showcasing Carven's signature emphasis on elegance for petite frames.

Technique & Style

Executed in a style characteristic of mid-20th-century fashion illustration, the piece highlights Carven's use of lightweight fabric suggestions (implied through texture and pattern) and meticulous detail, particularly in the oval motif pattern.

History & Provenance

Part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection, Ma griffe reflects Carven's pioneering work in Parisian couture and prêt-à-porter, including her innovative approach to lingerie design (notably, the patented push-up bra).

Context

Created during a pivotal time for ready-to-wear fashion, Ma griffe situates Carven among early adopters of accessible, high-fashion designs, balancing luxury with broader appeal.

Legacy

As a representative of Carven's aesthetic, Ma griffe contributes to the historical narrative of post-war French fashion, highlighting the designer's impact on both couture and everyday women's wear.

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.