Gymkana by Jean Desses c1960

In the 1960s, the concept of masculinity was deeply intertwined with themes of ruggedness, adventure, and tradition. Equestrianism, particularly in the context of sports and leisure activities, symbolized these ideals. Men were often portrayed as strong, assertive figures, embodying qualities of athleticism and sophistication. Films of the era often featured themes of horse racing, polo matches, and competitive riding, such as "National Velvet" (1944) and "The Horse Soldiers" (1959), which resonated with audiences and reinforced these ideals of masculinity.

Jean Desses, in naming his men's fragrance "Gymkana," drew upon this cultural backdrop. The word "Gymkana" itself originates from the Hindi word "jimkhana," meaning a place where sporting events take place, typically equestrian or athletic in nature. This term, adapted into English as "gymkhana," evokes images of skill, agility, and competition — qualities that align well with the active and confident persona associated with masculinity in the 1960s.

Choosing "Gymkana" as the name for a men's fragrance was a strategic decision. It not only evoked a sense of adventure and sportiness but also hinted at tradition and heritage, appealing to men who identified with these qualities. The scent would likely resonate with men of the time period, offering them a way to embody and express their idealized masculine identity through fragrance.

For women, "Gymkana" would evoke images of strength and sophistication associated with the masculine realm of equestrian sports. It could be perceived as alluring and attractive, offering a glimpse into the world of confident, adventurous men.

The name "Gymkana" itself suggests a blend of athleticism, elegance, and spirited competition, encapsulating a unique blend of emotions and imagery. In the realm of fragrances, where names often evoke specific moods or associations, "Gymkana" would stand out as a distinctive choice, promising a fragrance experience that embodies the spirit of its name — dynamic, refined, and bold.

In conclusion, "Gymkana" by Jean Desses, launched in 1960 and later in the USA by 1964, encapsulates a moment in time when masculinity was celebrated through athleticism and adventure, drawing on the allure of equestrian sports. The name itself carries connotations of strength, agility, and tradition, making it a fitting choice for a men's fragrance designed to resonate with the ideals and aspirations of men from that era.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a leather chypre fragrance for men. Cyclamen essence, Siberian pine essence; rosewood from Brazil; labdanum which gives a strong smell but of a characteristic sweetness; oak moss which, harmonized with patchouli and coumarin, this mixture gives Gykana for elegant men or dynamic women, A happy marriage, a single bottle!

• Top notes: cyclamen, citrus notes, bergamot, herbs, green notes
• Middle notes: labdanum, patchouli, Siberian pine
• Base notes: tonka bean, vanilla, Brazilian rosewood, oak moss, leather, amber, musk

Scent Profile:

In the rolling hills of the English countryside, where the ancient tradition of polo thrived amidst sprawling estates and pristine landscapes, stood the grand manor of Lord Harrington. Every summer, the estate hosted the prestigious Polo Cup, drawing elite players and spectators from around the world.

On this particular summer's day, the air was crisp with the promise of competition. The morning sun cast a golden glow over the emerald polo fields, where players in crisp white uniforms warmed up their steeds. Among them was Lord Harrington himself, a figure of impeccable stature and undeniable grace.

As Lord Harrington prepared for the tournament, the scent of Gymkana enveloped him like a tailored suit. At first, the fragrance opened with a burst of cyclamen and citrus notes, reminiscent of the dew-kissed flowers and the zesty freshness of bergamot that perfumed the morning air. These top notes danced with the herbal nuances and greenery that surrounded the estate, setting a tone of invigorating elegance.

As the matches commenced, the middle notes of Gymkana emerged, blending the rich sweetness of labdanum with the earthy depth of patchouli and Siberian pine. These scents mirrored the strength and agility displayed by the players and their majestic horses as they thundered across the field, each movement a testament to skill and strategy.

During a brief interlude between matches, Lord Harrington sought shade under the ancient oak tree that had witnessed generations of tournaments. There, amidst the whispers of oak moss and the soothing embrace of Brazilian rosewood, he paused to savor a moment of reflection. The base notes of tonka bean and vanilla added a comforting warmth to the coolness of the afternoon breeze, while the subtle hints of leather and amber evoked the timeless craftsmanship of his polished riding boots.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, signaling the end of the final match, Lord Harrington's team emerged victorious, their triumph punctuated by the applause of the assembled crowd. Amidst the jubilant celebrations and the clinking of champagne glasses, Gymkana remained a steadfast companion, its musky undertones lingering like a promise of enduring elegance and shared victories.

And so, as night fell over the estate and the stars twinkled overhead, the fragrance of Gymkana continued to weave its tale of tradition, strength, and camaraderie. In a single bottle, it encapsulated the spirit of the Polo Cup — a harmonious blend that celebrated the union of elegance and dynamism, much like the players and spectators who had gathered to witness the timeless sport unfold.

Bottle:

Gymkana's bottle, envisioned and designed by Pierre Camin, stands as a testament to both elegance and functionality. A narrow column with gently fluted sides, it exudes a sense of understated refinement. The fluting adds a tactile dimension to the sleek, clear glass, catching the light and enhancing its visual appeal. At the top, a practical yet stylish plastic screw cap ensures the fragrance remains secure and accessible, embodying a blend of practicality and aesthetic grace.

This design not only mirrors the classic lines of a polished column but also reflects the timeless sophistication that Gymkana embodies. It's a bottle that stands proudly on any dresser, its simple yet striking silhouette inviting one to experience the essence within—a fragrance that captures the spirit of adventure and tradition, bottled for discerning individuals who appreciate both style and substance.

Gymkana, revered for its timeless appeal and crafted for those who cherish the essence of tradition and adventure, was offered as an eau de toilette in a range of sizes to suit every preference and occasion. Available in sizes ranging from a convenient 2 oz to a generous 16 oz, each bottle bore the signature blend that captivated hearts and minds alike. Whether as a companion for daily refinement or a statement of enduring elegance, Gymkana in its varied sizes ensured that its essence could accompany individuals through every facet of life's journeys, embodying the spirit of sophistication and masculinity with each splash.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Gymkana, once a symbol of timeless masculinity and refined adventure, left an indelible mark on the fragrance world before its mysterious discontinuation, the exact date of which remains elusive. Throughout its tenure, Gymkana graced the shelves of fine boutiques and department stores, captivating those drawn to its blend of sophistication and rugged charm. As late as 1970, enthusiasts could still acquire this cherished scent, a testament to its enduring popularity and the lasting impression it made on discerning wearers. Its departure from the market left an air of nostalgia among those who cherished its distinctive notes—a blend that embodied the essence of a bygone era, celebrated through every spritz. Though no longer readily available, Gymkana continues to evoke memories of sophistication and masculinity, cherished by those fortunate enough to have experienced its allure firsthand.

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