Trésor was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1956.

Where can I see Trésor?

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

Artwork

Trésor

Marie-Louise Carven , 1956

Trésor is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1956 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Trésor, created circa 1956 by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven, is a sketch depicting a woman from the back, emphasizing a long, bright red coat with voluminous pockets and a hat. The quick, expressive drawing prioritizes the garment's shape and movement.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a woman viewed from behind, but the true focus is the coat, highlighted by its bright red color and dynamic folds. The omission of facial and hand details underscores the design's prominence over the wearer's identity.

Technique & Style

Characterized by rapid, expressive strokes, the sketch conveys a sense of spontaneity. The coat's folds are suggested with a few swift lines, while the rest of the figure, particularly the legs, is more sketchily defined, indicating a focus on capturing the garment's essence quickly.

History & Provenance

Created by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house (1945) and a pioneer in prêt-à-porter and innovative lingerie designs, Trésor is now part of the collection at the Museum of Ethnography.

Context

Reflecting Carven's approach to fashion, which often emphasized comfort and practicality for petite figures, Trésor's design elements (like the large pockets) suggest functionality alongside style, typical of her post-war Parisian couture innovations.