Mazurka was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1956.

Where can I see Mazurka?

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

Artwork

Mazurka

Marie-Louise Carven , 1956

Mazurka is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1956 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Mazurka, created circa 1956 by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven, is a loose, quick sketch of a woman in a sleeveless dress with a distinctive, colorful, flowing skirt.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a woman posed dynamically, suggesting movement, possibly alluding to the energetic Polish dance, the mazurka, through the sketch's title and the skirt's vibrant, patchwork hues of pink, green, and yellow near the hem.

Technique & Style

Executed in a spontaneous, sketchy manner, the work features minimal shading on top and loose lines, contrasting with the detailed, colorful emphasis on the skirt, reflecting Carven's emphasis on lightweight, feminine designs.

History & Provenance

Part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection, Mazurka represents Carven's innovative approach to fashion, including her focus on petite women and earlier innovations like the patented push-up bra and pioneering prêt-à-porter lines.