Artwork

Nevers

Nevers, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1958
Nevers, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1958

Nevers is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1958 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Nevers is a fashion sketch created by French designer Marie-Louise Carven around 1958. The work is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman in a coordinated ensemble consisting of a long coat with a fur collar, a patterned dress in blue and brown, and a defining belt. Her poised stance and neat hairstyle complete the stylish portrayal.

Technique & Style

Executed with apparent swiftness yet care, the sketch features a handwritten title, *Nevers*, and a supplementary line drawing of the coat's back, showcasing Carven's design process.

History & Provenance

Created by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house (established in 1945), *Nevers* reflects her approach to designing for petite women using lightweight fabrics, though these elements are not overtly highlighted in the sketch itself.

Context

As a piece from around 1958, *Nevers* sits within the broader context of Carven's pioneering work in prêt-à-porter, marking a shift towards more accessible haute couture.

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.