Who painted Plum pudding?

Plum pudding was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1953.

Where can I see Plum pudding?

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

Artwork

Plum pudding

Marie-Louise Carven , 1953

Plum pudding 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

Created circa 1953, *Plum pudding* is a fashion illustration by French designer Marie‑Louise Carven. The drawing depicts a woman in a coordinated green plaid ensemble, complete with a matching hat, black gloves and white shoes. It exemplifies Carven’s reputation for light, elegant garments tailored for a petite clientele, and it now resides in the Museum of Ethnography’s collection.

Subject & Meaning

The figure is presented in a poised stance, hands on hips, emphasizing the cut and movement of the short‑sleeved dress and its knee‑length, flared skirt. The coordinated accessories reinforce a cohesive look, while the lively pose conveys both confidence and a playful, mid‑century modernity that reflects the aspirational lifestyle of post‑war Parisian women.

Technique & Style

Carven employs bold, fluid lines and a vivid palette to delineate the garment’s structure and texture. The use of contrasting green plaid against the stark white of the heels and gloves creates visual rhythm, while the simplified rendering of the figure focuses attention on the clothing’s silhouette and pattern rather than on detailed facial features.

History & Provenance

Marie‑Louise Carven founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was among the first Parisian couturiers to launch a ready‑to‑wear line.

Marie‑Louise Carven founded her eponymous fashion house in 1945 and was among the first Parisian couturiers to launch a ready‑to‑wear line. *Plum pudding* was produced during the early 1950s, a period when Carven was expanding her brand’s visibility through illustrative work. The piece entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings as part of its broader acquisition of mid‑century fashion artifacts.