Feerie by Rigaud c1937

Launched in 1937, Feerie by Rigaud emerged during a time of profound transition in both the world and the perfume industry. The late 1930s were marked by significant cultural shifts as societies grappled with the aftermath of the Great Depression and faced the impending threat of World War II. In the world of fashion and luxury, there was a growing desire for escapism and a return to glamour, reflecting an emerging trend of sophistication and a longing for beauty amid global uncertainties.

Feerie, the French word for "fairyland" or "enchantment," evokes a sense of magic and wonder. Choosing this name for a perfume was a strategic move by Rigaud to captivate the imagination of women seeking an escape from the harsh realities of the time. The term "Feerie" suggests a whimsical, dreamlike quality, perfectly suited to a fragrance designed to transport its wearer to a realm of elegance and allure.

The name "Feerie Moderne" underscores the perfume's modernity while retaining its enchanting essence. It was intended to appeal to women who were drawn to sophistication and fantasy, reflecting the glamorous side of life that was often portrayed in cinema and high fashion of the period. These women, likely socialites or those with a penchant for luxury, would have been attracted to Feerie for its ability to evoke a sense of magical transformation and sophisticated charm.

In terms of imagery, "Feerie" conjures up visions of a mystical world filled with delicate, otherworldly beauty. The fragrance would be associated with sparkling evenings, fairy tales, and a sense of refined elegance. This enchanting theme would resonate with women who desired to escape the mundane and immerse themselves in a sensory experience that was both luxurious and imaginative.

Feerie’s evocative name and the perfume’s presentation were designed to create a sensory narrative that aligned with the desire for glamour and fantasy prevalent in the late 1930s. For women of that era, Feerie would have been more than just a fragrance; it would be a portal to an enchanting, sophisticated world, offering a fleeting but irresistible escape from the everyday.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a warm floral amber (oriental) fragrance for women.

• Top notes: bergamot, citrus accord, neroli, lily of the valley, aldehydes
• Middle notes: carnation, mixed spices, ylang ylang, orris, violet, rose, jasmine, orange blossom
• Base notes: vanilla, patchouli, oakmoss, sandalwood, cedar, musk and ambergris

Marie-Claire, 1937:

"Feerie by Rigaud, warm, ambery note. For the socialite; little notebook cluttered with fittings, bridges, teas, dinners in town. For the elite of the cosmopolitan world. For her pleasure, or her business, she always has a one foot in London, one in New York."

The New Yorker, 1938:

"Rigaud: We couldn't resist the way they have put out Feerie Moderne, with a naughty, old-fashioned nude on the box — the kind our fathers got roguish about. Perfume is nice, too. A good, fresh cologne has an overtone of amber (Saks-Fifth)."

L'Amour de l'art, 1950:

"Féerie by Rigaud: it's a nocturne of warm scents that rises in the evening around you. It transposes the secrets of enchantment and its heady harmonies give dark beauties the magnificence of a dream."

Bottle:

Feerie by Rigaud was presented in a strikingly beautiful perfume bottle that exemplified the elegance and refinement of 1930s design. The bottle itself was crafted from clear glass and featured a disk shape, which gave it a modern yet timeless aesthetic. Its clear surface allowed for the rich color and texture of the perfume inside to be visible, adding to the visual appeal of the bottle.

The design of the bottle was distinguished by its concentric rings, which were delicately molded into the glass. These rings, arranged in a series of circular patterns, created a sense of depth and movement, almost as if the bottle were capturing the fluidity and grace of the perfume's essence. This concentric motif not only enhanced the visual interest of the bottle but also suggested a subtle sense of rhythm and harmony, reflecting the enchanting nature of the fragrance it contained.

The stopper of the Feerie bottle was equally notable, designed with a frosted glass finish that added a touch of sophistication. Shaped like a stylized floral bloom, the stopper was both functional and decorative. Its disk-like form harmonized with the overall bottle design, and the frosted texture gave it a delicate, ethereal quality. Vertical ribbing radiated from the center of the stopper, resembling the intricate patterns of flower petals or the fine lines of a delicate leaf. This ribbing not only provided a tactile contrast but also contributed to the sense of refinement and artistry associated with the perfume.

The phrase "Présentation moderne d'après un original de Jean-Gabriel Domergue pour Feerie, nouveau parfum de Rigaud" suggests that this bottle design was inspired by an original concept from the renowned French artist Jean-Gabriel Domergue. Known for his elegant and modern depictions of women, Domergue’s influence would have imbued the Feerie bottle with a contemporary flair while preserving the classic allure of the period. This collaboration would have ensured that Feerie was not only a fragrance but also a work of art, beautifully encapsulated in a bottle that was as enchanting as the perfume itself.

The presentation of Feerie by Rigaud was as meticulously crafted as the perfume itself, reflecting a high level of sophistication and artistry. The bottle was housed in an elegant presentation case, meticulously covered in sumptuous gold fabric that exuded luxury and opulence. This golden exterior set the tone for the elegance within, creating an aura of grandeur and refinement from the moment one encountered the package.

The lid of the case featured a striking visual element that further enhanced its allure. Encased in glass, it displayed a reproduction of Jean-Gabriel Domergue’s iconic painting “Nu Sur un Champ de Lys.” Domergue, renowned for his elegant and modern depictions of female forms, infused the packaging with an additional layer of artistic prestige. The painting’s inclusion not only celebrated Domergue’s collaboration but also added a touch of high art to the fragrance’s presentation. The glass cover provided a sleek, protective shield for the painting, ensuring that the artwork remained a central and cherished feature of the package.

Domergue’s involvement in the design of the package underscored the importance of visual and artistic cohesion in the presentation of Feerie. His contribution ensured that the packaging was not merely a container but a complementary work of art, harmonizing with the fragrance’s enchanting qualities. The combination of the gold fabric, the glass-encased painting, and the exquisitely crafted bottle created a presentation that was both visually stunning and emblematic of the luxurious standards of the era. This thoughtful design not only elevated the perfume but also made it a collector’s item, cherished not only for its scent but also for its artistic and aesthetic value.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Feerie by Rigaud was discontinued at some point, though the exact date remains unknown. However, it is documented that the perfume was still available for purchase as late as 1949. This suggests that the fragrance enjoyed a considerable lifespan, reflecting its popularity and enduring appeal in the years following its introduction.

The discontinuation of Feerie likely marked the end of an era for this particular fragrance, which had captivated many with its enchanting and sophisticated qualities. As was common with many luxury items and perfumes of the time, changes in fashion, shifting consumer preferences, and evolving trends in the perfume industry could have contributed to the decision to phase out Feerie. The exact reasons for its discontinuation remain speculative, but it is clear that the fragrance held a special place in the hearts of those who appreciated its unique blend of warm floral and oriental notes.

The fact that Feerie was still being sold in 1949 is a testament to its success and the lasting impression it left on its audience. By this time, the perfume had already established itself as a beloved choice among discerning women who valued its rich, sophisticated scent and elegant presentation. Its continued presence in the market several years after its initial launch underscores the quality and allure of Feerie, highlighting its status as a cherished fragrance of its time.

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