Parfumerie Burval - Parfums de Luxe

Société des Parfums de Luxe Burval was a niche French perfume house based in Saint-Denis at 161, Boulevard Ornano, which operated for only a brief period from approximately 1924 to 1926. Burval produced perfumes during the early Art Deco period, focusing on creating luxurious and elegant presentations. Despite its short lifespan, the company made a notable impact with its choice of perfume bottles, collaborating with the renowned French bottle designer Julien Viard, known for his finely crafted Art Deco glass designs. Viard’s work with Burval helped lend their perfumes a sense of exclusivity and artistic flair, qualities highly sought after in the rapidly evolving luxury market of the time.

The name "Burval" itself has roots in the French language, though its exact etymological origins are not entirely clear. It is pronounced “boor-VAHL” (with the “r” softened in the French style). This name could be a compound of French linguistic elements, perhaps chosen to evoke a sense of elegance or sophistication suited to a perfume company targeting the high-end market. While Burval’s exact intentions with the name remain unknown, the choice reflects the wider trend among perfume houses in the 1920s of selecting distinct, often French-sounding names that conveyed refinement and exclusivity.

Burval’s perfumes, though few in number, are admired today for their exquisite bottle designs. The collaboration with Viard resulted in delicate glasswork that captured the Art Deco spirit, with features such as geometric lines, decorative reliefs, and finely molded stoppers. These bottles are now collectible items, prized not only for their historical value but also for the artistic contribution they represent from a short-lived yet ambitious player in the French perfume industry.

The frosted glass bottle created by Burval for their perfume "Ambre" in 1926 is a fascinating example of how ancient forms were reimagined for the Art Deco era. Designed in the shape of an ancient oil lamp, this bottle evokes a rich history, as oil lamps have long symbolized light, warmth, and the mystical essence of perfumes. In antiquity, oil lamps often held not only oil but fragrant essences used for ceremonial or therapeutic purposes, making this lamp-inspired bottle an intriguing nod to the ancient role of scent in everyday life and ritual. By adopting this shape, Burval not only referenced a visually compelling object but also underscored perfume’s deep-rooted association with ritual and sensory indulgence.

Adding a distinctive and alluring detail, the bottle’s handle incorporates a tiny nude figure, nestled elegantly into the curve, bringing an added touch of sophistication and sensuality to the design. The nude figure, a common motif in Art Deco design, represents beauty, naturalism, and the allure of the human form, themes closely aligned with the indulgent qualities of perfume itself. This bottle, produced by the glassmaker Depinoix, reflects the influence of Art Deco's fascination with form and stylized representations of mythic or classical imagery. The nude figure, delicately integrated into the bottle’s handle, also adds an element of surprise, inviting closer inspection and enhancing the bottle’s appeal as a luxury item.

Interestingly, this bottle was not only used for Burval’s "Ambre" but also by a little-known perfume house, Maharajah. This dual use by another perfumer suggests that the design was appreciated beyond Burval’s clientele and was recognized for its aesthetic and symbolic appeal. Collectors and historians today value this bottle for its rarity, as very few examples have survived, and for the timelessness of its form. Its ancient oil lamp shape, combined with the elegance of frosted glass and the delicate detailing, captures the essence of an era that sought to marry modern luxury with the mystique of antiquity—a fitting vessel for the opulent scents of the time.

American Perfumer & Essential Oil Review, 1927:

"Burval is a perfumer who endeavors to show his extracts and essences in curiously shaped bottles. "Heliopsis," for example, is a perfume offered for sale in a woman's bust-shaped bottle of an ivory white glass composition, with golden earrings; the card box is of adequate style. Another presentation is made like a small basket full of flowers supported by a wrought-iron triangular footing; this basket is in reality the main body of the bottle containing the perfumed liquid, and it has to be turned upside down, to disclose the neck and stopper hanging between the iron tripod."

The 1927 issue of American Perfumer & Essential Oil Review highlights Burval’s innovative approach to perfume presentation, showcasing their commitment to visually captivating, sculptural designs that emphasize artistic detail and thematic storytelling. Burval’s "Heliopsis" perfume, for instance, was sold in a bottle crafted to resemble a bust of a woman, molded from an ivory-hued glass composition. This representation not only adds an element of human beauty and elegance to the perfume but also reflects Art Deco’s fascination with the female form as an ideal of sophistication and grace. Adding to the allure, the woman’s bust is adorned with golden earrings, enhancing its femininity and evoking a sense of luxury. The choice of an ivory-like glass gives it a refined, delicate appearance, while the "adequate" style of the box reinforces the overall sense of elegance, carefully curated to match the bottle's aesthetic.

Another unique Burval presentation featured a perfume bottle disguised as a small, flower-filled basket supported by a triangular wrought-iron stand. This "basket" held the perfume within its main body, but the bottle’s design required it to be inverted to reveal the neck and stopper. This element of discovery transforms the experience of opening the perfume into a small ritual, engaging the user with a playful twist. Such an unconventional approach to bottle design underlined Burval’s dedication to craftsmanship and the desire to elevate perfume packaging from mere functionality to art. This basket presentation, with its wrought-iron base, likely drew inspiration from floral arrangements and pastoral motifs, suggesting the essence of fresh blooms captured within the perfume. Through these intricate presentations, Burval displayed their ability to blend artistic design with a touch of whimsy, setting their bottles apart as much more than containers—they became objects of admiration and conversation.

The perfumes of Burval:

• 1924 Chypre du Roy
• 1924 Cyprival
• 1924 Les Fleurs
• 1925 Heliopsis
• 1926 Oeillet
• 1926 Sotilye
• 1926 Genet Fleurie
• 1926 Lavande
• 1926 Violette
• 1926 L'Ambre

Author's Note: In reviewing the information presented in this article, it's essential to understand the limitations in reconstructing the olfactory profiles of these historic perfumes. No direct olfactory references are available, as fragrance profiles for many of these long-lost scents are non-existent, and obtaining authentic samples remains extremely challenging. Consequently, the fragrance profiles provided here are hypothetical, crafted from original formulae and ingredients commonly listed in 19th and early 20th-century apothecary books whenever possible. For simpler “single note” fragrances, like Jasmin, Chypre, Rose, Violette, and Ambre, basic ingredients were selected based on traditional formulations typical of the era.

The creation of these profiles relies on educated guesswork, especially for more complex floral, oriental, or chypre compositions. Most perfumeries at the time adhered to foundational structures when composing their scents, layering accords and commonly using animalic notes to enhance depth and longevity. Early perfume compositions would have primarily used natural extracts, infusions, absolutes, and tinctures, but with the turn of the century, the introduction of new synthetic aromachemicals marked a shift in perfumery. By the early 20th century, synthetic bases and prefabricated accords became accessible to perfumers, introducing a broader palette of effects. Many of these prefabricated bases have become extinct and cannot be replicated today due to restrictions on certain ingredients or their scarcity.

The profiles outlined here serve merely as a framework to help understand the compositions that companies of that era might have crafted. Should I acquire any of these perfumes in sample form, I will compare my observations to these reconstructions and provide updates accordingly. Any discrepancies in scent will be duly noted, with adjustments made to the profiles to reflect the nuances of an original reference sample.

Chypre du Roy: 

In 1924, Burval launched Chypre du Roy, or Chypre of the King, a regal and complex fragrance crafted in the classic "chypre" style. This perfume evokes a rich, verdant landscape balanced by opulent, earthy notes, representing a blend both noble and luxurious. True to its name, the scent would have embodied the sophistication and elegance associated with royalty, layering a vibrant, fresh opening over a deeply sensual, woody base. Chypre du Roy is a striking composition that merges a variety of notes, meticulously chosen to deliver an unfolding olfactory experience reminiscent of warm Mediterranean woodlands and rich, resinous undertones.

The top notes offer a bright, effervescent entry. Bitter orange, petitgrain, bergamot, limetta, neroli, geranium, and verbena form a lively introduction, their combined aroma a sparkling fusion of citrus and herbal freshness. The vivid, slightly bitter zest from the orange and bergamot pairs beautifully with the floral touch of neroli and the uplifting, grassy notes of verbena and geranium, creating an initial impression that is both invigorating and refined.

As Chypre du Roy develops, the middle notes introduce a lush, floral heart. Rosemary, rose, orris root, tuberose, jasmine, cassie, nutmeg, angelica, and hyacinth add a multidimensional blend of florals and spices. The rose and tuberose bring a soft, opulent bouquet, while jasmine adds a rich sweetness, complemented by the powdery, violet-like scent of orris root. Cassie and hyacinth contribute a green, slightly peppery floral note, while nutmeg and angelica add an unexpected spice, blending to create a heart that is rich, textured, and sophisticated.

The base notes anchor the fragrance in warmth and depth. Ambergris, musk, tonka bean, sandalwood, oakmoss, labdanum, vanilla, calamus, patchouli, civet, castoreum, and storax create a luxurious, resinous foundation. This base is quintessentially chypre: the earthy warmth of oakmoss and patchouli pairs with the smoothness of sandalwood and the balsamic sweetness of vanilla and labdanum. Animalic notes like civet and castoreum lend a sensual depth, while ambergris and musk provide an elegant, slightly salty warmth. The effect is a rich, lasting dry down that lingers beautifully on the skin, combining the sensuality of woody and animalic notes with a hint of exotic spice.

In Chypre du Roy, Burval skillfully balanced vibrant citrus, complex florals, and a profoundly luxurious base to create a fragrance as multifaceted and memorable as its name suggests.

Cyprival:

In 1924, Burval introduced Cyprival, likely a variation on the classic chypre fragrance style. The name Cyprival combines "chypre," meaning "Cyprus" in French, with "val," potentially a nod to the concept of a "valley" or a place of depth and richness. Chypre perfumes are known for their sophisticated, mossy, and earthy profiles, rooted in a combination of fresh top notes, floral heart, and a warm, woody base. The name Cyprival suggests an enchanting, verdant valley, conjuring images of lush, sun-dappled landscapes.

The fragrance may have opened with bright, crisp citrus and green notes, similar to other chypres, perhaps beginning with the vibrant zest of bergamot or the uplifting green of petitgrain. These opening notes would bring a lively freshness, setting an initial tone that was both invigorating and elegant.

At the heart, Cyprival would likely have transitioned into a floral bouquet, which is essential in chypre compositions. Notes such as rose, jasmine, and orris root (with its violet-like, powdery scent) may have filled this middle layer with warmth and depth. These florals would blend beautifully, creating a lush, sophisticated heart that balanced both softness and intensity.

Finally, the base would have been rich with the classic chypre foundation: mossy, resinous, and deeply sensual. Oakmoss would have added an earthy, forest-like quality, perhaps paired with patchouli to bring a slightly sweet, balsamic warmth. Further depth could have come from animalic notes, such as musk or civet, while sandalwood and labdanum might have added a creamy, resinous warmth. This grounding base would likely have been long-lasting, giving Cyprival its memorable, lingering quality on the skin.

In essence, Cyprival was likely a reimagining of the traditional chypre, crafted to evoke the serene beauty and hidden richness of a green, untouched valley. Its blend of fresh top notes, floral heart, and earthy, warm base would have made it a refined yet natural fragrance, ideal for those seeking something both timeless and evocative.

Les Fleurs:

In 1924, Burval released Les Fleurs (translated as The Flowers), a fragrance designed to capture the essence of a flourishing garden. The name alone suggests a celebration of floral abundance, and the composition follows suit, unfolding with a rich array of blossoms, herbs, and warm, grounding notes. Les Fleurs was likely crafted to immerse the wearer in the lush, fragrant world of fresh petals and greenery, balanced by a warm, sensual foundation.

The top notes of Les Fleurs open with a bright, sunny blend. Neroli, bergamot, orange, and lemon bring an effervescent citrus introduction, sparkling and refreshing. These zesty notes are softened by the delicate, slightly green aroma of reseda (or mignonette), a flower known for its light, honeyed scent. Cassie adds a hint of powdery, sweet mimosa, while orange blossom contributes a clean, creamy floral note, giving the opening a fresh yet nuanced character. Lavender rounds out the top notes with its calming, herbaceous edge, grounding the initial burst of florals and citrus in gentle earthiness.

In the heart, Les Fleurs blossoms into a rich, romantic floral bouquet. Rose and tuberose introduce velvety and creamy textures, while jasmine adds a lush, intoxicating sweetness. Violet contributes a powdery, slightly green softness, while cloves and cassia (cinnamon) offer a touch of spice, adding depth to the heart’s floral profile. The addition of gardenia brings a creamy, tropical quality, while geranium adds a subtle hint of rosy, minty freshness, creating a vibrant yet well-balanced floral center.

The base notes provide a warm, enveloping foundation. Musk and ambergris lend an elegant, animalic touch, giving the fragrance a depth that contrasts with the lighter, floral top notes. Vanilla and almond add a sweet, comforting warmth, while benzoin brings a resinous, balsamic richness. Cedar adds a woody strength to the base, grounding the fragrance with its dry, slightly smoky undertone. The final touches of civet, patchouli, and vetiver add complexity: civet contributes a sensual, slightly musky warmth; patchouli brings an earthy, damp quality; and vetiver adds a grassy, smoky depth.

Les Fleurs would have been a complex, lush fragrance, blending the vibrancy of fresh florals with an indulgent, warm base. The interplay of bright top notes, romantic heart, and grounding base would have created a multidimensional scent experience, one that evokes a garden in full bloom yet balanced by sophisticated warmth. This fragrance would likely appeal to those who appreciate the beauty of classic floral perfumes, enhanced by a touch of exotic spice and earthiness.

Heliopsis:

In 1925, Burval unveiled Heliopsis, a fragrance inspired by the delicate scent of heliotrope, a flower known for its subtle, almond-vanilla aroma. Named after Heliotrope, Heliopsis translates to “sun” in Greek roots (helios), hinting at a fragrance that celebrates the warmth and radiance of sunlight. Heliopsis was crafted to evoke a warm, golden aura with soft floral undertones and a comforting sweetness, its composition capturing a bouquet of flowers in bloom under the soft light of dawn.

The top notes of Heliopsis open with the powdery sweetness of heliotrope, mingling with cassie’s honeyed, slightly spicy florals to create a gentle, inviting introduction. Orange blossom adds a light, creamy floral touch, freshened by the zest of bergamot. Almond enhances the heliotrope’s signature, adding a smooth, marzipan-like warmth, which blends beautifully with the floral sweetness of cassie and orange blossom.

The fragrance’s heart blooms with lush, opulent florals. Jasmine and tuberose lend an intoxicating depth, both creamy and slightly indolic, while ylang-ylang adds a tropical, exotic richness. Rose adds a classic floral elegance, and orris root brings a powdery, violet-like softness, enhancing the heliotrope's sweet almond aroma. This floral heart is rich and sensual, blending creamy, heady notes that conjure a sunlit garden in full bloom.

As Heliopsis dries down, it settles into a warm, comforting base. Ambergris and musk add a sensual, animalic warmth, lending a lasting depth to the fragrance. Tonka bean and vanilla bring a sweet, creamy smoothness, echoing the almond warmth from the opening. Peru balsam and styrax introduce a resinous, slightly spicy sweetness that enriches the scent, while vetiver adds a touch of smoky earthiness. Civet provides an additional animalic nuance, enhancing the warmth and longevity of the base.

The result is a scent that feels both luminous and enveloping, like sun-drenched petals layered over warm, sweet resins. Heliopsis would likely appeal to those who appreciate a floral gourmand fragrance with a gentle, powdery sweetness, rich with a delicate balance of florals, creamy warmth, and a softly sensual base. Its timeless, golden aura makes it an ideal fragrance for those seeking a floral with comforting depth and elegance.

Oeillet:

In 1926, Burval launched Oeillet, named for the French word for "carnation." This fragrance captures the spicy, floral warmth that is characteristic of the carnation flower, enriched with layers of other floral and spicy notes to evoke a romantic, exotic ambiance. Carnation is renowned for its naturally spicy aroma, with clove-like undertones that are both fiery and softly floral. Oeillet was composed to emphasize this unique character, blending the warmth of spices, the richness of florals, and a smooth, earthy base that enhances its complexity.

The top notes of Oeillet open with cassie, a sweetly powdery, honeyed scent with a hint of spice. Rose geranium contributes a minty, slightly green freshness that balances the richer top notes, while clove adds a signature spice, enhancing the carnation theme from the outset. The inclusion of neroli, with its delicate orange blossom undertones, brightens the initial bouquet, and the subtle heat of pimento and cinnamon gives the top a fiery, warm spiciness. Petitgrain adds a crisp, slightly bitter green quality, tying together the rich and bright elements.

The heart of Oeillet is where the florals come into full bloom, dominated by carnation’s soft spice and rose’s timeless, lush aroma. Orange blossom and tuberose add creamy floral sweetness, while jonquil (daffodil) introduces a subtle green and narcotic quality. Jasmine brings an indolic depth, while orris (derived from iris root) adds a powdery elegance that enhances the carnation's soft spice. Ylang-ylang lends a tropical richness to the bouquet, creating a lush and layered floral heart that feels both classic and slightly exotic.

The base of Oeillet is warm, sensual, and grounding, composed of rich, long-lasting notes. Vanilla and benzoin add a soft, balsamic sweetness, which blends seamlessly with the slightly smoky depth of styrax and tolu balsam. Musk contributes a touch of sensual warmth, while patchouli and sandalwood provide earthy, woody notes that enhance the depth and complexity of the fragrance. The addition of ambergris lends a subtle, animalic richness, while civet rounds out the base with a hint of exotic depth.

Oeillet would likely have been a bold, enveloping fragrance, perfect for those who appreciate floral compositions with a strong character. Its spicy, floral complexity, layered with warm, earthy undertones, would have made it ideal for evening wear or for any occasion calling for an aura of elegance and intrigue.

Sotilye:

n 1926, Burval introduced Sotilye, a fragrance whose name translates to “Solitaire” in Haitian Creole, evoking images of a single, cherished gem. The concept of a "solitaire" carries connotations of rarity and uniqueness, suggesting that this perfume embodies an exclusive, captivating experience that stands apart from others. The essence of Sotilye is likely designed to reflect both elegance and individuality, drawing upon the idea of a solitary gem shining brightly amid a sea of ordinary treasures.

While specific notes for Sotilye are not detailed, one can infer a composition that aligns with its name, emphasizing luxurious and exquisite elements that create a memorable scent profile. The term “solitaire” suggests a fragrance that is not only sophisticated but also multifaceted, appealing to those who appreciate a complexity in their scent that mirrors the layered beauty of a fine jewel.

In many cases, a perfume named after a solitary gem would likely incorporate rich floral notes, balanced with deeper, earthier undertones that evoke both grace and strength. For instance, a blend might feature radiant top notes of fresh citrus or bright florals like neroli (bitter orange blossom) and bergamot, creating an uplifting and sparkling opening reminiscent of sunlight glinting off a precious stone. This would be complemented by a heart of deeper floral notes, such as jasmine or rose, which convey an essence of romance and depth.

The base of Sotilye might include warm, luxurious elements such as amber, sandalwood, or musk, providing a sensual foundation that lingers on the skin. These elements would ground the fragrance, reinforcing its allure and sophistication, much like the enduring beauty of a carefully cut diamond.

Overall, Sotilye is likely a celebration of elegance and individuality, embodying the characteristics of a rare gem through its rich, multifaceted notes. Designed for the discerning wearer, this fragrance would resonate with those who seek a scent that is as unique and memorable as a solitary jewel, offering an olfactory experience that is both refined and distinctive.

Genet Fleurie:

In 1926, Burval unveiled Genet Fleurie, a fragrance that translates to "Flowering Broom" in English. The term "genet" refers to the flowering plant known as broom, celebrated for its vibrant yellow blossoms and sweet, herbal aroma. This name evokes a sense of freshness and vitality, suggesting that Genet Fleurie captures the essence of blooming nature, filled with light and lushness.

The top notes of Genet Fleurie present a complex opening that sets the stage for its floral character. Broom, with its sweet and slightly green scent, introduces a bright and uplifting start, complemented by the comforting warmth of almond, which adds a creamy, nutty richness. Lavender, known for its calming and aromatic properties, infuses the fragrance with a herbaceous floral nuance, while hawthorn contributes a delicate, soft sweetness reminiscent of spring blooms. Together, these elements create a harmonious and inviting introduction, reminiscent of a sun-drenched meadow in full bloom.

As the fragrance evolves, the heart notes reveal a lush bouquet, emphasizing the floral theme established in the opening. Orange blossom, with its intoxicatingly sweet and fragrant profile, melds beautifully with violet, which brings a powdery softness. The inclusion of hyacinth adds a fresh, green aspect, while the tea rose introduces a romantic, velvety character to the mix. Jasmine enhances the floral richness with its heady, sensuous aroma, while orris—derived from the iris root—adds a powdery elegance that deepens the floral experience.

The base notes of Genet Fleurie anchor the fragrance with a warm, earthy foundation. Tonka bean contributes a sweet, warm aroma with hints of vanilla and spice, providing a comforting depth. Cedar adds a woody, resinous quality, while camphor introduces a refreshing and slightly medicinal aspect. The sweet floral notes of heliotrope complement the base with their almond-like sweetness, while cinnamon provides a subtle spiciness that enhances the overall warmth. Pine contributes a crisp, green freshness, reminiscent of a forest, and sandalwood offers a creamy, rich base that lingers beautifully on the skin.

Overall, Genet Fleurie embodies a vibrant celebration of nature's floral bounty, encapsulating the essence of blooming flowers in a harmonious and elegant composition. The interplay of sweet, fresh, and warm notes creates a fragrance that is both uplifting and comforting, ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in a fragrant garden of delights. This perfume would have appealed to those seeking a joyful, floral scent that resonates with the beauty of springtime blooms.

Lavande:

In 1926, Burval introduced Lavande, a name that translates to "Lavender" in English. Lavender is renowned for its calming and soothing properties, making it a quintessential floral note often associated with tranquility and relaxation. This fragrance promises to capture the essence of a sun-drenched lavender field, inviting the wearer to experience a soothing and refreshing olfactory journey.

The top notes of Lavande set a vibrant and uplifting stage for the fragrance. Bright bergamot and zesty lemon provide an invigorating citrus burst that awakens the senses. The star of this opening is lavender itself, which introduces its signature floral aroma, characterized by its herbaceous, slightly sweet scent. Accompanying these notes are cassie, which adds a delicate floral sweetness, and petitgrain, derived from the leaves and twigs of the bitter orange tree, offering a green and slightly woody facet. Coriander contributes a spicy, aromatic quality, while angelica and lemon thyme enhance the complexity with their herbal nuances, resulting in a refreshing and lively introduction.

As the fragrance develops, the heart notes unfold a rich tapestry of florals and spices. Orris, known for its powdery elegance, provides a soft, velvety texture that complements the floral array. Rose geranium adds a fresh, rosy aspect, while the classic rose itself imparts a lush, romantic quality. Cinnamon introduces a warm, spicy element that deepens the scent's complexity, while carnation brings a clove-like spiciness, enhancing the overall richness. The sweet, fragrant notes of orange blossom and the herbaceous touch of sage add further depth, creating a beautifully layered heart that is both floral and aromatic.

The base notes of Lavande anchor the composition with a warm and inviting foundation. Peru balsam contributes a sweet, balsamic richness that envelops the wearer, while civet adds an animalic depth that enhances the fragrance's sensuality. Storax introduces a sweet, resinous quality, while musk lends a soft, warm base that enhances the overall longevity of the scent. Ambergris, with its unique marine and sweet aroma, adds an air of sophistication, while the comforting sweetness of vanilla rounds out the composition. Benzoin offers a rich, warm resinous character, and nutmeg adds a touch of spicy warmth, creating a complex and inviting finish.

Overall, Lavande is a beautifully balanced fragrance that captures the essence of lavender while exploring a rich array of complementary notes. The interplay of citrus brightness, floral richness, and warm, resinous depths creates a scent that is both refreshing and comforting, ideal for those seeking a fragrance that embodies tranquility and elegance. With its intricate composition, Lavande promises to transport the wearer to a serene garden filled with blooming lavender, where relaxation and beauty reign supreme.

Violette:

In 1926, Burval launched Violette, a name that translates to "Violet" in English, reflecting the delicate and captivating floral note at the heart of this fragrance. Violets are celebrated for their sweet, powdery scent, which evokes a sense of nostalgia and romanticism, often associated with springtime blooms. This fragrance aims to encapsulate the charm of a blooming violet garden, inviting the wearer to experience the elegance of this enchanting flower.

The top notes of Violette introduce a lively and fresh character. Cassie, which has a sweet, floral scent reminiscent of mimosa, adds a sunny and uplifting quality to the opening. Almond, with its creamy, nutty aroma, provides a rich and comforting contrast that enhances the overall sweetness of the fragrance. Geranium contributes a green and rosy aspect, balancing the sweetness with a hint of herbaceous freshness. The titular note, violet, makes a striking appearance, offering its soft, powdery essence that is both charming and elegant. The bright bergamot, a citrus fruit, rounds out the opening with its refreshing and zesty sparkle, creating a harmonious introduction to the composition.

As the fragrance develops, the heart notes unfold a luxurious bouquet of florals. Jasmine adds a rich, intoxicating sweetness, enveloping the senses in its opulent aroma. Orris root, known for its powdery and velvety character, imparts a soft elegance that beautifully complements the other floral notes. The classic rose adds depth and romance with its lush, fragrant profile, while heliotrope contributes a sweet, almond-like nuance that enhances the fragrance’s overall warmth. Tuberose introduces a creamy, heady floral quality, bringing a touch of exoticism to the heart of Violette, creating a captivating interplay of scents that evoke a garden in full bloom.

The base notes of Violette provide a warm and sensual foundation that anchors the fragrance beautifully. Vanilla offers a sweet and creamy richness, creating a comforting backdrop that envelops the wearer. Tolu balsam, with its sweet, balsamic aroma, adds a resinous depth that enhances the warmth of the composition. Musk lends a soft, animalic sensuality that deepens the fragrance, while ambrette introduces a subtle floral and musky scent that adds complexity and intrigue. Together, these base notes create a lingering and inviting finish, ensuring that Violette leaves a memorable impression.

In summary, Violette is a beautifully crafted fragrance that captures the essence of violets while exploring a rich tapestry of complementary notes. The interplay of sweet florals, creamy undertones, and warm, resinous elements creates a scent that is both enchanting and sophisticated. Perfect for those who appreciate the delicate beauty of violets, Violette invites wearers to revel in the elegance and charm of a fragrant garden in full bloom, making it an exquisite addition to the Burval collection.

L'Ambre:

In 1926, Burval introduced L'Ambre, which translates to "The Amber" in English. This fragrance pays homage to amber's rich, warm, and resinous qualities, often associated with sensuality and depth. The name evokes a sense of luxury and timelessness, hinting at the complex, layered aroma that this perfume embodies. The essence of amber, with its warm, golden hue and sweet, earthy scent, sets the stage for an enchanting olfactory journey.

The top notes of L'Ambre begin with the vibrant and captivating scent of orange blossom, a floral note that exudes freshness and a hint of sweetness reminiscent of sunny citrus groves. This is complemented by reseda, a lesser-known flower that adds a green, slightly herbaceous quality, creating an intriguing balance. Together, these notes form a bright and inviting introduction, reminiscent of a sun-drenched garden in bloom, inviting wearers to delve deeper into the fragrance's luxurious heart.

As the fragrance evolves, the heart notes reveal a rich floral bouquet. Rose, with its romantic and lush aroma, imparts a classic elegance, while orris—derived from the iris plant—adds a powdery and velvety quality that enhances the overall sophistication of the composition. Jasmine follows, contributing its intoxicating and sweet scent, known for its alluring and sensual nature. Geranium, with its fresh, green, and slightly rosy profile, brings an earthy brightness to the heart, balancing the opulence of the other florals. Together, these middle notes create a harmonious and inviting essence, enveloping the wearer in a lush garden of fragrant blooms.

The base notes of L'Ambre anchor the fragrance with a warm and sensual foundation. Ambergris, the star of this composition, provides a rich, sweet, and earthy scent that exudes warmth and depth. Civet adds an animalic, musky note, lending an intriguing complexity that heightens the fragrance’s allure. Musk follows, enhancing the overall warmth and sensuality, while vanilla introduces a creamy sweetness that softens the blend. Tonka bean adds a rich, slightly nutty facet, and benzoin contributes a balsamic warmth, creating a comforting and resinous aura. Styrax further deepens this rich base with its sweet, smoky qualities, while patchouli rounds out the composition with its earthy, woody aroma, adding a grounding aspect that beautifully complements the sweetness of the other base notes.

In summary, L'Ambre is a luxurious and complex fragrance that artfully captures the essence of amber while weaving together an exquisite tapestry of floral and warm notes. The interplay of fresh orange blossom and reseda at the top transitions smoothly into a heart filled with lush florals, culminating in a rich, resinous base that lingers on the skin. This perfume invites wearers to indulge in the warmth and sophistication of amber, creating an alluring signature scent that is both timeless and unforgettable.

Bottles: