Artwork

Pingouin Empereur

Pingouin Empereur, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1962
Pingouin Empereur, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1962

Pingouin Empereur 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

Pingouin Empereur is a drawing by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven, created circa 1962. It is a representation of a woman in a sleek black dress, rendered in a loose and expressive style.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman from behind, wearing a long black dress with a high neckline and a simple square cutout at the chest, adorned with small white motifs. Her hairstyle is a loose bun, and she wears black heels, conveying a sense of elegance.

Technique & Style

The sketch is characterized by loose, quick ink strokes, giving it an informal, spontaneous feel. The contrast between the black dress and the plain background highlights the dress's details.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded the fashion house Carven in 1945 and was a pioneer in introducing prêt-à-porter lines. Pingouin Empereur is 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.