Artwork

Poisson chinois

Poisson chinois, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1952
Poisson chinois, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1952

Poisson chinois 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

Poisson chinois is a 1952 fashion illustration by Marie-Louise Carven, a French designer known for her work with lightweight fabrics and petite women's clothing.

Subject & Meaning

The illustration depicts a woman in a sleek black dress with a V-neck and flowing skirt, accessorized with round sunglasses and simple earrings. The title 'Poisson chinois' (Chinese fish) is written in the corner, suggesting an unconventional name for the design.

Technique & Style

The loose, quick lines of the sketch indicate it was drawn rapidly, possibly as a preliminary design idea. The dress features blue embroidery near the chest, adding a touch of color to the overall design.

History & Provenance

The work is held in the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, and was created by Carven, who founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was among the first Parisian couturiers to introduce a prêt-à-porter line.

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.