Artwork

Antinéa

Antinéa, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1961
Antinéa, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1961

Antinéa is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1961 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Antinéa is a drawing executed by French fashion designer Marie‑Louise Carven around 1961. The work, now part of the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings, depicts a woman in a light‑blue dress with a short bodice and a long, flowing skirt. The sketch is rendered in loose, rapid lines that convey a spontaneous, informal quality.

Subject & Meaning

The figure is presented with her hair gathered up and one hand resting lightly at her side, suggesting a poised yet relaxed demeanor. The attire, reminiscent of early‑20th‑century silhouettes with a fitted waist and soft fabric, reflects Carven’s interest in creating elegant, wearable forms for petite women.

Technique & Style

Carven’s drawing employs quick, gestural strokes that give the image a sketch‑like immediacy. The use of a simple color palette, primarily light blue, highlights the garment’s texture while the minimal background focuses attention on the clothing and the figure’s stance.

History & Provenance

Founded in 1945, Carven was among the first Parisian couturiers to launch a ready‑to‑wear line and to patent a push‑up bra. Antinéa, created circa 1961, entered the Museum of Ethnography’s collection at an unspecified date, where it remains accessible for study of mid‑century fashion illustration.

Annabel et Anne
Annabel et Anne, Carven

Artist & collection

Portrait of Marie-Louise Carven

Artist

Marie-Louise Carven

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.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Antinéa?

Antinéa was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1961.

Where can I see Antinéa?

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