Artwork
Tribord

Tribord is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1952 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1952 by French designer Marie‑Louise Carven, *Tribord* is a fashion illustration that forms part of the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings. The drawing records a woman dressed in a dark‑green, tailored suit, presented with a poised stance that emphasizes the garment’s structure rather than fine detail.
Subject & Meaning
The figure wears a high‑collared jacket with pronounced buttons and sharply cut pockets, paired with a knee‑short skirt. One hand rests on the hip while the other grips a small handbag, conveying confidence and modern femininity. The title, scrawled at the top, suggests a nautical reference, perhaps alluding to the suit’s sleek, streamlined silhouette.
Technique & Style
Carven’s line work is loose and rapid, favoring bold contours over intricate shading. The sketch relies on swift strokes to capture the overall shape of the ensemble, highlighting the cut and proportion of the suit. This economical approach reflects the designer’s focus on silhouette and practicality, hallmarks of her ready‑to‑wear philosophy.
History & Provenance
Marie‑Louise Carven founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was among the first couturiers to launch a prêt‑à‑porter line, making high fashion more accessible. *Tribord* exemplifies her early post‑war output and was later acquired by the Museum of Ethnography, where it remains in the permanent collection.
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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