Artwork
Ismaïlla

Ismaïlla is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1959 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.
About this work
Overview
Ismaïlla is a fashion design sketch created by Marie-Louise Carven around 1959. It depicts a woman wearing a loose, flowing dress with a wide skirt, characterized by soft blue and green leafy floral patterns. The overall impression is one of lightness and elegance.
Subject & Meaning
The subject of Ismaïlla is a woman adorned in a quintessential example of Carven's design aesthetic, emphasizing comfort and effortless elegance. The dress's design suggests a blend of sophistication and casual wear, reflective of Carven's influence on prêt-à-porter fashion.
Technique & Style
The sketch features simple lines and gentle washes of color, highlighting the dress's airy texture and floral pattern. This technique conveys the lightweight quality of the fabric, aligning with Carven's penchant for working with lace and similar materials.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1959 by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the House of Carven in 1945, Ismaïlla is now part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection, showcasing Carven's contribution to the evolution of Parisian prêt-à-porter.
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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