Orgia by Myrurgia c1922

In 1922, when Myrurgia launched their perfume "Orgia," Spain was experiencing a vibrant cultural period known as the "Silver Age." This era was characterized by a blossoming of arts, literature, and cinema, marked by a fascination with sensuality, passion, and romanticism. Films of the time often explored themes of love, desire, and the allure of the exotic, resonating with the flamboyant and expressive nature of the period.

The choice of the name "Orgia" by Myrurgia seems deliberate and reflective of the cultural milieu. In Spanish, "Orgia," pronounced "or-hee-ah," traditionally refers to a lavish celebration or revelry, often associated with excess and indulgence. However, its connotation can also suggest a profusion of beauty and sensory delights, aligning perfectly with the perfume's purported essence of "many flowers, many lights, many loves."

For women of the 1920s, a perfume named "Orgia" would likely evoke images of passion, romance, and an exotic allure. In a time when societal norms were loosening and women were increasingly asserting their independence, a fragrance promising such extravagance and allure would likely resonate deeply.

The response to "Orgia" would probably be one of intrigue and fascination. The name itself conjures images of opulence and sensuality, suggesting a perfume that promises to transport wearers to a realm of heightened emotions and pleasures. The word "Orgia" evokes a sense of indulgence, excitement, and perhaps even a hint of mystery, making it a compelling choice for a fragrance during that era.

As for uniqueness, "Orgia" would indeed stand out. While it might raise eyebrows due to its bold and suggestive name, in the context of the 1920s cultural climate, it would likely be seen as daring and avant-garde, appealing to those seeking to embrace the spirit of the times.

Interpreted through the lens of the 1920s, "Orgia" would be seen as a celebration of life, love, and beauty—a perfume that captures the essence of an era defined by its passion and artistic fervor. Its name alone would be enough to evoke a range of emotions, from curiosity to excitement, ensuring that it leaves a lasting impression on those who encounter it.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral oriental fragrance fragrance for women. It begins with a powdery top followed by an opulent floral heart, layered over a warm oriental base with a hint of musk.

• Top notes: aldehydes, bergamot, spices
• Middle notes: lily of the valley, jasmine, carnation, Bulgarian rose, orange blossom, orris
• Base notes: incense, cedar, vanilla, vetiver, sandalwood, ambergris, musk, oakmoss, patchouli, tonka bean

The Sketch, 1927:

"Orgia, the perfume of a thousand and one flowers, created by the world renowned artists, MYRURGIA, of Barcelona. Mi Lady is ever first to appreciate the qualities of a perfume so subtly elusive, so utterly distinctive, as ORGIA. Redolent of romance, its delicate aroma inspires dreams of soft, Andalusian nights, the languorous music of guitars, the splashing of hidden fountains. Distilled essence of a thousand and one flowers, the very soul of Spain. ORGIA is a perfume that takes pride of place on Mi Lady's toilet table. Then too there is ORGIA Bath and Toilet Soap, Complexion Powder, Cream, Hair Friction Lotion, and Brilliantine, all of them equally seductive, equally indispensable." 

The Sketch, 1927:

"Visions of sunny Spain, exquisite nights in Andalusia, the languorous music of guitars, the snick of the castanets. Perfume is the essence of Romance. Today, more so than ever, it lends added fascination to the sophisticated women of every land. In lovely Spain, they know this well, and Spain it is that has produced ORGIA, that dreamy, subtle perfume which is the chosen fragrance of the aristocracy of Spain. Distilled essence of a thousand and one flowers, ORGIA emphasises charm and beauty. ORGIA perfume, Bath and Toilet Soap, Complexion Powder and Cream, and Hair Friction Lotion may be obtained from high class hairdressers, perfumers, stores and beauty salons etc "

Sketch, 1927:

"In lovely Spain they know this well, and Spain it is that has produced ORGIA— that dreamy, subtle perfume which is the chosen fragrance of the aristocracy of Spain. Distilled essence of a thousand and one flowers ORGIA emphasizes charm."

Scent Profile:

In the heart of Andalusia, where the sun casts a golden glow over the iconic landmarks that define its rich cultural tapestry, Myrurgia's reformulated Orgia perfume unfolds like a fragrant ode to this storied region. Imagine yourself wandering through this landscape, where every ingredient of the fragrance tells a story, accompanied by the sights, sounds, tastes, and textures that characterize Andalusia.

Begin your olfactory journey at the Alhambra in Granada, a majestic fortress complex adorned with intricate Moorish architecture. As you inhale, the powdery top notes of aldehydes, bergamot, and spices evoke the warm breeze that carries the scent of nearby orange blossoms and jasmine from the Generalife gardens. The air is filled with the citrusy freshness of bergamot, reminiscent of the aromatic orchards surrounding the palace.

Moving through the winding streets of Seville's Barrio Santa Cruz, the opulent floral heart of Orgia blooms like the gardens of the Alcazar. Lily of the valley, jasmine, carnation, Bulgarian rose, orange blossom, and orris blend harmoniously, their fragrant petals echoing the romance and passion of flamenco music echoing from nearby taverns. The scent intensifies with each step, mirroring the intensity of the dance and the vibrant colors of the traditional Andalusian tiles underfoot.

As you venture further, the warm oriental base notes transport you to the Great Mosque of Córdoba, where incense and cedar mingle with the subtle sweetness of vanilla and tonka bean. The ancient walls whisper tales of centuries past, while the scent of sandalwood and patchouli recalls the craftsmanship of the city's famed leather artisans.

In Ronda, perched dramatically on the edge of a gorge, the fragrance deepens with earthy vetiver and oakmoss, capturing the rugged beauty of the surrounding countryside. The musky allure of ambergris and musk lingers like a lingering embrace, echoing the warmth of the Spanish sun on terracotta rooftops.

Throughout this sensory journey, notable landmarks such as the Mezquita-Catedral in Córdoba, the Giralda tower in Seville, and the winding streets of the Albaicín in Granada provide a backdrop of history and cultural richness. Each ingredient of Myrurgia's Orgia perfume intertwines with the essence of Andalusia, creating a fragrance that is both an homage to the region's beauty and a timeless expression of its allure.

Product Line:

 By 1930, Myrurgia had established the Orgia perfume line as a comprehensive collection of products that catered to a variety of personal care and beauty needs. Central to this collection was the Orgia Parfum, the flagship product known for its rich and enduring fragrance. The Parfum offered a concentrated form of the scent, designed to provide a long-lasting olfactory experience that could be enjoyed throughout the day and into the evening.

Complementing the Parfum was the Orgia Toilet Water, which provided a lighter and more refreshing alternative. This Eau de Toilette was perfect for daily use, offering a subtle yet enchanting aroma that could be easily applied for a quick pick-me-up or after bathing.

Expanding beyond fragrances, the Orgia line included essential skincare products such as Face Powder and Face Powder Compact. These products were formulated to enhance the complexion, providing a smooth and flawless finish while subtly imparting the signature scent of Orgia. The Face Powder Compact, in particular, offered convenience and elegance, making it ideal for on-the-go touch-ups throughout the day.

In the realm of personal hygiene, Myrurgia offered the Orgia Toilet Soap and Bath Soap. These soaps were crafted not only to cleanse the skin effectively but also to envelop the senses in the luxurious fragrance of Orgia, transforming everyday bathing into a sensory indulgence.

Addressing skincare needs beyond cleansing, the Orgia line featured the Vanishing Cream, designed to moisturize and nourish the skin while leaving it feeling soft and supple. Additionally, the Orgia Eau de Toilette (Locion) provided a refreshing and fragrant way to invigorate and lightly scent the skin after cleansing or throughout the day.

Overall, the Orgia product line by 1930 represented a sophisticated blend of fragrance and skincare, offering consumers a comprehensive array of products to indulge in the captivating allure of Myrurgia's signature scent. Whether through perfumes, skincare essentials, or bath luxuries, Orgia catered to the desires for beauty, luxury, and sensory pleasure, embodying the elegance and decadence of its era.

 

Bottles:

Over the years, the packaging of Myrurgia's Orgia perfume evolved to reflect the essence of its luxurious and captivating fragrance. The original packaging, which debuted with the fragrance, featured a design that was both elegant and distinctive. Set against a pristine white surface, the packaging was adorned with red bell flowers scattered irregularly across its exterior. This arrangement not only added a touch of vibrant color but also evoked a sense of natural beauty and allure.

The choice of red bell flowers was likely deliberate, as flowers often symbolize femininity, romance, and sensuality—qualities that the Orgia perfume aimed to embody and evoke. The irregular distribution of the flowers on the packaging contributed to its unique and artistic appeal, suggesting a product that was not only a fragrance but also a piece of visual art, designed to captivate and intrigue.

The white backdrop of the packaging provided a stark contrast to the vivid red of the bell flowers, enhancing the overall aesthetic and ensuring that the design stood out among other perfumes of its time. This combination of colors and imagery was not only visually striking but also conveyed a sense of purity and elegance, aligning perfectly with the luxurious and sophisticated nature of the Orgia fragrance itself.

As Myrurgia continued to refine and expand its product line over the years, the packaging of Orgia would likely have evolved to reflect changing tastes and trends while maintaining its core elements of beauty and allure. However, the original design with its white surface and irregularly scattered red bell flowers remains a timeless representation of the perfume's early allure and artistic sophistication.

 

Fate of the Fragrance:

Myrurgia's Orgia perfume, originally launched in 1922, experienced a varied trajectory in the decades following its debut. While the exact date of its discontinuation remains unclear, historical records indicate that Orgia continued to be available for purchase well into the 1960s. During this period, the fragrance maintained its popularity and presence in the market, appealing to women who appreciated its distinctive blend of floral and aromatic notes.

The 1960s marked a time of cultural and social change, where perfumes played a significant role in defining personal style and sophistication. Orgia's enduring availability throughout this era suggests it was well-received and valued among consumers for its timeless appeal and alluring scent profile.

Despite its eventual discontinuation, the legacy of Orgia continued to resonate within the fragrance industry. Its revival in 1970, with a reformulated version that embraced contemporary tastes while honoring its classic roots, speaks to the enduring allure and nostalgia associated with this iconic perfume.

In summary, Myrurgia's Orgia perfume enjoyed a robust presence in the market throughout the mid-20th century, continuing to captivate perfume enthusiasts with its unique blend of notes and evocative charm.

1970 Reformulation & Relaunch:

The reformulated version of Myrurgia's Orgia, launched in 1970, embodies a sophisticated aldehydic floral fragrance designed for women. Opening with a burst of aldehydes, peach, and bergamot, the perfume immediately captivates with its fresh and sparkling top notes. These elements create an invigorating initial impression, setting the stage for the heart of the fragrance.

The middle notes of Orgia reveal an elegant floral bouquet, featuring lily of the valley, rose, jasmine, ylang ylang, and orris. These delicate floral essences intertwine harmoniously, adding a sense of femininity and refinement to the composition. The floral heart of the perfume is rich and full-bodied, evoking a timeless allure.

As the fragrance settles, it transitions into a warm and powdery woody base. Notes of sandalwood, musk, tonka bean, vetiver, benzoin, and amber provide a comforting and sensual foundation. This base adds depth and sophistication to Orgia, ensuring a lasting impression that lingers gently on the skin.

Overall, the reformulated Orgia from 1970 presents a balanced blend of freshness, floral elegance, and creamy warmth. It is designed to appeal to women seeking a classic yet contemporary fragrance experience, with its layers of aldehydes, florals, and soft woods creating a memorable olfactory journey from the first spritz to the dry down.

Blanco y Negro, 1970:

"A new and intriguing perfume - ORGIA  by MYRURGIA ESPANA."

Vogue, 1973:

"Orgia, a recent fragrance from Myrurgia, is like a profuse display of fresh flowers, music, bright lights, Spanish artistry."

Vogue, 1975:

"Myrurgia's Orgia perfume, for example, now comes in Dusting Powder, Cream Perfume, plus Spray Cologne."

1970 Repackaging:

The repackaging of Myrurgia's Orgia in 1970 marked a significant departure from its original design featuring bell flower motifs. In the photos illustrating the reformulated fragrance, the new packaging reflects a modern aesthetic that aligns with contemporary sensibilities of the time. Instead of the traditional bell flowers scattered on a white surface, the packaging now likely showcases sleeker lines, perhaps with a more minimalist approach or a design that emphasizes elegance and sophistication.

The reformulation of the fragrance in 1970 not only updated the scent profile but also aimed to rejuvenate the visual identity of Orgia to appeal to a new generation of consumers. The packaging may have incorporated new materials or textures, such as glass, metal accents, or embossed logos, to convey luxury and exclusivity. This strategic redesign was likely intended to enhance shelf appeal and reinforce Orgia's status as a timeless and desirable perfume.

Overall, the repackaging of the 1970 reformulated Orgia fragrance represents a deliberate evolution from its original aesthetic, showcasing a blend of modernity and classic elegance that resonated with contemporary tastes while honoring the heritage of the iconic scent.