Artwork

Tulipe

Tulipe, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1956
Tulipe, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1956

Tulipe 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

Tulipe is a painting created around 1956 by Marie-Louise Carven, a French fashion designer who founded the Carven fashion house in 1945.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman in a dark blue dress with a white ribbon around her neck, turned slightly to the side with her face obscured. The detailed folds of the shiny skirt and high heels convey an impression of elegance.

Technique & Style

The artist has captured the texture of the dress and the play of light on its fabric, set against a light beige background. The focus on the dress's details and the overall pose of the woman suggests an emphasis on fashion and style.

History & Provenance

Tulipe is part of the collection at the Museum of Ethnography, indicating its significance beyond its aesthetic value.

Context

Marie-Louise Carven was known for her designs for petite women and her use of lightweight fabrics, and was among the first couturiers to introduce a prêt-à-porter line, reflecting her influence on post-war fashion.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Marie-Louise Carven

Artist

Marie-Louise Carven

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.