Who painted Saint Cyr?

Saint Cyr was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1958.

Where can I see Saint Cyr?

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

Artwork

Saint Cyr

Marie-Louise Carven , 1958

Saint Cyr 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

Saint Cyr, created circa 1958 by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven, is a religiously themed fashion design piece now housed in the Museum of Ethnography.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, depicted in a simple two-piece outfit, conveys a sense of understated elegance and restraint, potentially reflecting the religious inspiration behind the design. The outfit consists of a dark blue and black checkered jacket with a belt and a matching, above-knee skirt.

Technique & Style

Rendered in bold lines and flat colors without shading, the sketch emphasizes geometric simplicity. The checkered pattern is stylized as blocks of color, characteristic of Carven's emphasis on clean, modern designs suitable for petite women.

History & Provenance

Created by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of her eponymous fashion house (established in 1945) and a pioneer of prêt-à-porter in Paris, Saint Cyr represents her approach to accessible, high-quality fashion.

Context

Emerging in the late 1950s, this design aligns with the era's trends towards more relaxed, modernist fashion, while its religious theme adds a unique layer of depth.

Legacy

As part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection, Saint Cyr contributes to the historical record of mid-20th-century French fashion, highlighting Carven's contribution to the development of ready-to-wear clothing.