Artwork
Polka

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
Artist
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.
Museum
Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris
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