Artwork
Novelty
Novelty is a drawing by Madeleine & Madeleine. It dates from 1924 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 1924, “Novelty” is an image work attributed to the collaborative duo known as Madeleine & Madeleine. The piece is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is displayed as an example of early twentieth‑century figurative drawing.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on a woman dressed in a vivid red gown that flows to the ground, complemented by a draped cape and high‑heeled shoes. Her short, neatly arranged hair and striking red lipstick emphasize a modern, self‑assured presence, suggesting a portrayal of contemporary femininity and urban confidence.
Technique & Style
The drawing relies on cross‑hatching to generate tonal variation, with intersecting lines building depth and shadow across the figure’s attire. A small, loosely rendered sketch appears in the lower corner, likely an initial study that remained visible, offering insight into the artists’ preparatory process.
History & Provenance
Signed with the title “Novelty” and the names “Madeleine & Madeleine” at the bottom, the work has remained in the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings since its acquisition, though details of its early ownership are not recorded in public records.
Context
Produced in the interwar period, the image reflects the era’s fascination with fashionable modern women and the rise of consumer culture. Its bold color palette and stylized representation align with contemporary trends in graphic illustration and advertising, situating the piece within broader visual developments of the 1920s.
Artist & collection
Artist
These artists left a small but striking set of 1924 drawings and designs that mix fashion and line.
Museum
Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris
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