Who painted Perle noire?

Perle noire was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1962.

Where can I see Perle noire?

Perle noire is held by Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

Artwork

Perle noire

Marie-Louise Carven , 1962

Perle noire is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1962 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1962 by French couturier Marie‑Louise Carven, Perle noire is a fashion illustration depicting a woman in a plain black dress accented with three vertical rows of tiny white motifs. The drawing is held by the Museum of Ethnography and exemplifies Carven’s focus on lightweight, elegant garments for petite figures.

Subject & Meaning

The figure is presented in a modest pose, hair neatly gathered, hands clasped before her, emphasizing the dress rather than personal narrative. The white elements, resembling minute beads or pearls, draw attention to the garment’s surface treatment, suggesting a subtle play of texture and refinement within a minimalist silhouette.

Technique & Style

Carven employs quick, loose line work that conveys movement and lightness, while the repetitive white shapes are rendered with stippled detail, creating a tactile impression of beading. The sketch’s sparse background keeps the viewer’s focus on the clothing and its decorative pattern.

History & Provenance

Founded in 1945, Carven’s fashion house was among the first in Paris to launch a ready‑to‑wear line, bridging haute couture and everyday wear. Perle noire, produced in the early 1960s, reflects this transitional period and now resides in the Museum of Ethnography’s collection.