Who painted Robinson?

Robinson was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1958.

Where can I see Robinson?

Robinson is held by Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

Artwork

Robinson

Marie-Louise Carven , 1958

Robinson 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

Created circa 1958, *Robinson* is a fashion sketch by French designer Marie-Louise Carven. The drawing, part of the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings, captures a single garment in two complementary views—a side study and a frontal outline—illustrating Carven’s design approach during the late 1950s.

Subject & Meaning

The illustration depicts a woman wearing a loose, knee‑length dress with puffed sleeves, a cinched waist, and a wide, flared skirt patterned in green and yellow florals. The figure’s hair is neatly pulled back, one leg is advanced, and she holds a small purse, suggesting a casual, everyday elegance.

Technique & Style

Carven’s lines are fluid and assured, conveying the garment’s lightness with minimal strokes. The sketch’s quick, gestural quality indicates it was likely a preparatory study, emphasizing the dress’s silhouette and fabric drape rather than detailed rendering.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was an early adopter of ready‑to‑wear concepts. *Robinson* entered the Museum of Ethnography’s collection at an unspecified date, joining other artifacts that document mid‑century fashion practices.

Context

During the 1950s Carven was renowned for designing for petite women and for experimenting with lightweight textiles such as lace and gingham. The *Robinson* sketch reflects her focus on accessible, airy clothing that combined practicality with refined style.