Artwork

Polka

Polka, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1958
Polka, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1958

Polka is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1958 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Polka is a sketch created by Marie-Louise Carven, a French fashion designer, around 1958. It is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman in a long, light blue gown with outstretched arms, alongside a smaller drawing of another dress design. The simple, elegant designs reflect Carven's focus on petite women and lightweight fabrics.

Technique & Style

The artist employed loose, quick lines to convey the shape and movement of the garments. The blue color is applied flatly, without shading, emphasizing the designs' simplicity.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded the Carven fashion house in 1945 and was a pioneer in introducing prêt-à-porter lines. Her work is characterized by designs for petite women and the use of lightweight fabrics.

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.