Artwork

'St Moritz'

'St Moritz', by Marie-Louise Carven, 1949
'St Moritz', by Marie-Louise Carven, 1949

'St Moritz' is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1949 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

St Moritz is a drawing created by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house, around 1949. It is now part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a person in a red jacket with distinctive features, large pockets, rolled-up sleeves, and a high collar, accompanied by light pants, a belted waist, and what appears to be a pair of sticks or tools. The overall pose and attire convey a sense of playfulness and sportiness.

Technique & Style

While specific medium details are not provided, the drawing's simplicity and liveliness suggest a straightforward, possibly quick, rendering style, focusing on capturing the subject's casual, energetic demeanor.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1949 by Marie-Louise Carven, a pioneering Parisian couturier known for her work with lightweight fabrics and petite women's designs, as well as for introducing one of the first prêt-à-porter lines. The piece is signed by the artist.

Context

Given Carven's background in fashion, St Moritz might reflect her design sensibilities or serve as a sketch for a potential outfit concept, though its inclusion in a Museum of Ethnography suggests an interpretation possibly leaning towards cultural or lifestyle depiction.

Legacy

The legacy of St Moritz is not widely detailed in provided sources, but as part of a museum collection, it contributes to the archival of Carven's diverse creative outputs beyond high fashion, into possibly more casual or experimental works.

'Saint-Moritz'
'Saint-Moritz', 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 'St Moritz'?

'St Moritz' was painted by Marie-Louise Carven in 1949.

Where can I see 'St Moritz'?

'St Moritz' is held by Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.