Artwork

Valencay

Valencay, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1958
Valencay, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1958

Valencay 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

Valencay is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven, a French fashion designer, created around 1958. It is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman in a blue polka-dot dress and matching jacket, walking. Her short hair is neatly styled, and she wears simple shoes. The image conveys a sense of movement and captures a moment in time.

Technique & Style

The sketch is characterized by loose, quick lines, with a few strokes suggesting movement. The polka dots on the dress are evenly spaced, while other lines are rough and freehand, giving the drawing a spontaneous feel.

History & Provenance

Marie-Louise Carven founded the Carven fashion house in 1945 and was known for her designs for petite women and work with lightweight fabrics. She was also a pioneer in prêt-à-porter and invented the first push-up bra.

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.