Artwork
Watteau

Watteau is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1953 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.
About this work
Overview
The 'Watteau' sketch, created around 1953 by Marie-Louise Carven, is a fashion study featuring a woman in a dark, flowing dress. The drawing is characterized by loose, confident lines and quick strokes.
Subject & Meaning
The sketch depicts a woman wearing a high-waisted dress with puffed sleeves, her hair pulled back, and one arm raised while the other rests on her hip. The pose and attire evoke a sense of movement and elegance.
Technique & Style
The artwork is executed in a spontaneous and expressive style, with loose lines and quick strokes conveying a sense of energy and fluidity. The confident handling suggests a rapid, observational drawing.
History & Provenance
The 'Watteau' sketch is part of the collection at the Museum of Ethnography. Marie-Louise Carven, the artist, founded the Carven fashion house in 1945 and was a pioneer in introducing prêt-à-porter lines.
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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