'Sapin' was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1949.

Where can I see 'Sapin'?

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

Artwork

'Sapin'

Marie-Louise Carven , 1949

'Sapin' is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1949 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Sapin is a drawing created by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven around 1949. The work features two black silhouetted figures side by side, each dressed in distinct outfits, set against a plain background.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two fashion designs, labeled 'Sapin' and 'Morgini', possibly indicating the names of the outfits. The figures' awkwardly posed arms suggest movement, while the designs showcase Carven's approach to fashion, particularly for petite women.

Technique & Style

Executed in bold, confident lines with no shading, the drawing relies on flat black shapes to define the figures and garments. The style contrasts with techniques like cross-hatching, opting instead for simplicity and clarity.

History & Provenance

Created in the late 1940s by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house, Sapin is now part of the collection at the Museum of Ethnography. Carven was a pioneer in introducing prêt-à-porter lines alongside couture.

Context

Sapin reflects Carven's design ethos, emphasizing lightweight fabrics (though not directly visible in the drawing) and tailored looks for petite women, characteristic of her contributions to post-war French fashion.

Legacy

As a document of Carven's design work, Sapin provides insight into the evolution of French fashion post-1945, particularly the development of accessible, modern clothing through prêt-à-porter lines.