Clavel de España by Myrurgia c1922

In 1922, the time when "Clavel de España" by Myrurgia was launched, Spain was deeply connected to carnations culturally and symbolically. Carnations, or "clavel" in Spanish, held significant meaning in Spanish tradition, often associated with love, passion, and the spirit of Spain itself. The flower adorned celebrations, bullfights, and was a symbol of national identity.

During this period, Spain experienced a cultural renaissance known as the Silver Age, marked by a resurgence in literature, arts, and music. While specific films or songs directly referencing carnations might not have been prominent, the theme of Spanish identity and romanticism pervaded various artistic expressions of the time.

Myrurgia likely chose the name "Clavel de España" for its perfume to capitalize on this cultural symbolism. "Clavel de España" translates to "Carnation of Spain" in English, directly evoking the image of Spain's beloved flower. This choice would resonate deeply with women of the time, offering a fragrance that not only captured the essence of the carnation but also embodied the spirit of Spanish passion and romance.

For women in the early 1920s, a perfume named "Clavel de España" would evoke images of vibrant red carnations, the warmth of Spanish sunsets, and the allure of Spanish culture. The fragrance would likely be perceived as elegant, passionate, and evocative of a romanticized Spain.

The name itself, "Clavel de España," suggests uniqueness and cultural richness. It stands out as a distinctive choice in the perfume market, appealing to those who appreciate the heritage and symbolism associated with carnations in Spanish culture.

Emotionally, "Clavel de España" would evoke feelings of nostalgia, romance, and perhaps a sense of pride in Spanish identity. The scent would be expected to capture the essence of carnations—floral, spicy, and warm—creating a sensory experience that resonates with its cultural references.

Overall, "Clavel de España" by Myrurgia represents a thoughtful blend of cultural heritage and perfume artistry, appealing to women who seek a fragrance that embodies both elegance and the spirit of Spain encapsulated in the vibrant red carnation.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is a sweet and spicy floral fragrance for women, with a distinctive carnation note.

• Top notes: cloves, cassie, jonquil, rose geranium, neroli, pimento
• Middle notes: cinnamon, carnation, orris, jasmine, orange blossom, rose, tuberose
• Base notes: benzoin, ambergris, sandalwood, vanilla, styrax, tolu, musk, patchouli

Life, 1934:

"Get yourself a bottle of spicy Spanish perfume, preferably Clavel, a Myrurgia brand."

The American Perfumer and Essential Oil Review, 1936:

"MYRURGIA : Three more perfumes from this Spanish house, each totally different and yet equally delightful. The containers share honors with the elegance of the odors, being very handsome and quite unusual. The "Hawaii" bottle of skyscraper design has a clear glass square stopper. The box is covered with suede-finish ivory paper on which are irregularly pasted strips of real straw. The "Sprint" perfume, recommended for sports use, is in a charming little round bottle made up of inverted panels. It fits into a shiny aluminum case on top of which is embossed the company's trade mark. "Clavel de Espana" is the truest carnation scent it has been our privilege to examine. The smart bottle has silver and red labels, and the box has a curved silver cover on which are printed two carnations in color and the name in black."

The New Yorker - Volume 13, 1937:

"Lord & Taylor have Myrurgia scents, which are terrifically Spanish (they include a very heavy carnation called Clavel). The $1 sizes are as cute as anything, for they come packed in wooden cigars with gay tassels, or little bells, or whatever."

The New Yorker - Volume 21. 1945:

"Myrurgia: Maja and Clavel perfumes, designed to bring back memories of Old Spain to you (Altman)."

 

Scent Profile:

In the heart of Old Spain, amidst whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, the air is filled with the intoxicating scent of red carnations. It's the eve of a grand fiesta, and the town square buzzes with anticipation. As the sun dips low, casting a warm glow over the cobblestone streets, the first notes of a lively flamenco guitar drift through the air, beckoning locals and visitors alike to join in the celebration.

Underneath the arched portals draped with colorful tapestries, beautiful Spanish women in flowing dresses adorned with red carnations sway to the rhythm of castanets. Their laughter mingles with the tantalizing aroma of traditional Spanish dishes being prepared nearby. The scent of spicy cloves and the delicate sweetness of cassie and jonquil perfume the evening air, mingling with the heady essence of rose geranium and neroli.

At the heart of the fiesta, a table groans under the weight of savory tapas—spiced chorizo, salty olives, and aged Manchego cheese. The scent of pimento and cinnamon wafts from the dishes, teasing the senses and inviting indulgence. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that dances on the palate, accompanied by the crisp notes of orange blossom and the luxurious warmth of jasmine.

As the night deepens, the fragrance of carnations becomes more pronounced. Their spicy, floral aroma intertwines with the sweetness of tuberose and the powdery elegance of orris. The air is alive with the heady mix of benzoin and ambergris, their rich undertones complementing the lingering scent of sandalwood and vanilla. Styrax adds a touch of smokiness, while tolu and musk create a sensuous base that lingers on the skin like a whispered promise.

Throughout the fiesta, the town pulses with the rhythmic beat of flamenco music and the joyous voices of revelers. The touch of cool ceramic tiles underfoot contrasts with the warmth of the evening air, creating a sensory tapestry that envelops all who partake in this celebration of life, love, and the timeless allure of Spain—a tapestry woven with the unforgettable scent of red carnations, the heart and soul of "Clavel de España."

Bottles:

"Clavel de España" presents itself in a smartly designed bottle adorned with silver and red labels, reflecting both elegance and a nod to its Spanish heritage. The bottles themselves feature clean lines and a timeless shape, with a hint of Art Deco influence, echoing the glamour of its early 20th-century origins. The silver and red labels evoke a sense of sophistication, while the inclusion of two vibrant carnations in full color on the curved silver box cover instantly draws the eye. These carnations, symbolic of love and passion in Spanish culture, are complemented by the name of the fragrance elegantly printed in black, adding a touch of contrast and highlighting the essence of the perfume within. This packaging not only protects the precious contents but also serves as a visual celebration of the rich history and romantic allure that "Clavel de España" embodies.

Fate of the Fragrance:

"Clavel de España" stands as a timeless masterpiece among carnation perfumes, revered for its evocative blend of sweet and spicy floral notes that capture the essence of Old Spain. Its popularity soared throughout the decades, becoming a beloved fragrance among those who appreciated its distinctive character and the romantic allure it evoked. Renowned for its ability to transport wearers to sun-drenched Spanish gardens adorned with vibrant red carnations, "Clavel de España" held a unique place in the world of perfumery.

Despite its acclaim and enduring appeal, the exact date of its discontinuation remains shrouded in mystery, leaving enthusiasts to lament its absence in today's market. However, records indicate that as late as 1970, "Clavel de España" continued to be available, allowing its admirers to savor its intoxicating fragrance and reminisce about its association with timeless elegance and Spanish charm.

Those fortunate enough to have experienced "Clavel de España" recall its rich complexity—the initial burst of spicy cloves and pimento, the soft embrace of carnation and jasmine in the heart, and the warm, lingering base of ambergris and sandalwood. Each inhalation offered a journey through history and culture, encapsulating the essence of Spain in a bottle.

The discontinuation of "Clavel de España" left a void in the world of fragrance, leaving collectors and connoisseurs to cherish remaining bottles as treasured artifacts of a bygone era. Its legacy lives on in the memories of those who were captivated by its allure, forever associating the scent of carnations with the romance and sophistication of this iconic perfume.

CLICK HERE TO FIND CLAVEL DE ESPANA PERFUME BY MYRURGIA