Artwork
Paon

Paon is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1952 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.
About this work
Overview
Paon, created circa 1952 by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven, is a fashion sketch now housed at the Museum of Ethnography. Characterized by loose, quick lines, it captures an initial design concept.
Subject & Meaning
The sketch depicts a woman in a long, flowing, dark dress with a wide, floor-sweeping skirt and loose-fitting top, emphasizing the garment's shape and movement.
Technique & Style
Executed in a rapid, expressive manner, Paon features loose drawing and suggests texture through simple, indicative lines, with possible cross-hatching to imply shading and depth.
History & Provenance
Created by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house (est. 1945) and a pioneer in prêt-à-porter, Paon is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.
Context
Reflecting Carven's focus on lightweight fabrics and designs for petite women, Paon exemplifies her approach to accessible, elegant fashion during the early 1950s.
Artist & collection
Artist
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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