Artwork

Olivier

Olivier, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1955
Olivier, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1955

Olivier is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1955 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Olivier is a fashion illustration created by Marie-Louise Carven, a French designer, around 1955. The image is a simple yet elegant sketch of a woman in a dark green ensemble.

Subject & Meaning

The illustration depicts a woman wearing a long, button-front jacket and a matching flared skirt. Her hair is pulled back, and she stands with one hand on her hip, conveying a sense of confidence.

Technique & Style

The drawing is characterized by loose lines and a lack of extraneous detail, resulting in a clean and uncluttered visual representation. The name 'Olivier' is scribbled in the corner, likely indicating the design name of the outfit.

History & Provenance

The work is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection. Marie-Louise Carven founded the Carven fashion house in 1945 and was a pioneer in introducing prêt-à-porter lines and innovative designs, such as the push-up bra.

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.