Who painted Capucine?

Capucine was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1951.

Where can I see Capucine?

Capucine is held by Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

Artwork

Capucine

Marie-Louise Carven , 1951

Capucine is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1951 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1951, *Capucine* is a fashion illustration attributed to Marie‑Louise Carven, the French designer who founded the Carven house in 1945. The drawing, signed "Colette L.," depicts a woman in a flowing, plaid coat, a large red hat, and a matching red chain‑strap purse, and is part of the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings.

Subject & Meaning

The image portrays a stylish, petite figure in motion, emphasizing Carven’s focus on lightweight, feminine garments suited to smaller women. The bold red accessories contrast with the muted coat, highlighting the designer’s interest in playful color accents within an otherwise understated ensemble.

Technique & Style

Executed as a quick sketch, the drawing employs loose line work and minimal shading to convey the fluidity of the coat and the flare of the skirt. The use of simple, low‑key footwear and a striking hat reflects Carven’s signature blend of elegance and practicality.

History & Provenance

Carven, noted for pioneering ready‑to‑wear collections alongside haute couture, produced this illustration during the early post‑war period when she was expanding her brand. The piece entered the Museum of Ethnography’s collection at an unspecified date, where it remains catalogued under the title *Capucine*.

Context

The early 1950s saw a shift toward more accessible fashion, and Carven’s work exemplified this trend by offering refined designs for everyday wear. *Capugine* illustrates her approach to combining sophisticated tailoring with accessible fabrics such as lace and gingham, aligning with the broader movement toward prêt‑à‑porter.