Artwork

Pimprenelle

Pimprenelle, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1951
Pimprenelle, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1951

Pimprenelle 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.

About this work

Overview

Pimprenelle is a black-and-white drawing by Marie-Louise Carven, a French fashion designer, created around 1951. It is a representation of a woman in a plaid outfit and is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman from the knees up, wearing a long plaid skirt and matching top with a peplum waist. Her pose, with both hands on her hips and one leg slightly bent, conveys elegance and refinement.

Technique & Style

Rendered in black and white, the drawing uses the plaid pattern to create texture and depth. The overall effect is sophisticated, characteristic of Carven's designs known for favoring lightweight materials and petite figures.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was a pioneer in Paris's ready-to-wear collections. Pimprenelle is now part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

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.