Who painted 'Pâquerettes'?

'Pâquerettes' was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1951.

Where can I see 'Pâquerettes'?

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

Artwork

'Pâquerettes'

Marie-Louise Carven , 1951

'Pâquerettes' is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1951 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris. Created in 1951, *Pâquerettes* is a fashion illustration by French designer Marie‑Louise Carven.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1951, *Pâquerettes* is a fashion illustration by French designer Marie‑Louise Carven. The work belongs to the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings and exemplifies Carven’s early post‑war output, when she was expanding her house beyond couture into ready‑to‑wear.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman wearing a sleek black dress with a deep V‑neck, the front of the skirt adorned by vivid floral embroidery. She is captured mid‑gesture, one arm lifted, suggesting movement and confidence. The title, *Pâquerettes* (French for “daisies”), alludes to the floral motif that decorates the garment.

Technique & Style

Rendered with quick, flat washes of colour and clean, confident outlines, the image resembles a sketch from a fashion studio. The lines are loose yet purposeful, giving the figure a sketchy, spontaneous quality while still defining the garment’s structure.

History & Provenance

Marie‑Louise Carven founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was among the first couturiers to launch a prêt‑à‑porter line. *Pâquerettes* reflects this transitional period, illustrating the designer’s approach to accessible yet elegant clothing. The work entered the Museum of Ethnography’s collection at an unspecified date.

Context

The early 1950s saw a shift in French fashion toward ready‑to‑wear, with designers like Carven bridging haute couture and mass‑market appeal. This illustration captures that moment, showcasing a refined silhouette rendered in a style more typical of studio sketches than finished runway photographs.

Artist & collection

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.

Museum

Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris

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