Artwork

Philidor

Philidor, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1956
Philidor, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1956

Philidor is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1956 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Philidor is a fashion illustration created by Marie-Louise Carven, a French designer, around 1956. The work is held in the collection of the Museum of Ethnography.

Subject & Meaning

The illustration depicts a woman wearing a striped shirt, flared skirt, and pointed shoes, with her hair pulled back under a small hat. The simple, elegant outfit is rendered in a way that conveys a sense of movement.

Technique & Style

The drawing is characterized by quick, confident lines that capture the details of the clothing. The artist's use of stripes on the shirt and skirt creates a dynamic effect, and the overall style is loose yet precise, typical of a fashion sketch.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded the fashion house Carven in 1945 and was known for her designs tailored to petite women and her work with lightweight fabrics. She was also a pioneer in introducing prêt-à-porter lines and patented a 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.