Artwork

Manteau bleu

Manteau bleu, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1957
Manteau bleu, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1957

Manteau bleu is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1957 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Manteau bleu is a watercolor sketch of a woman wearing a blue coat, created by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven around 1957. The sketch is characterized by loose, quick lines that capture the pose and fabric folds of the subject.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman in a long, blue coat with a high collar and flared skirt, wearing simple black shoes and having her hair pulled back neatly. The coat is the focal point, standing out against a plain background.

Technique & Style

The watercolor sketch is executed with quick, light strokes, suggesting a spontaneous and gestural approach. The artist's use of minimal detail and loose lines conveys a sense of movement and fluidity.

History & Provenance

Manteau bleu is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection. Marie-Louise Carven, the creator, founded the fashion house Carven in 1945 and was a pioneer in introducing prêt-à-porter lines among Parisian couturiers.

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.