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Welcome to my unique perfume blog! Here, you'll find detailed, encyclopedic entries about perfumes and companies, complete with facts and photos for easy research. This site is not affiliated with any perfume companies; it's a reference source for collectors and enthusiasts who cherish classic fragrances.
My goal is to highlight beloved, discontinued classics and show current brand owners the demand for their revival.
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In 1922, the year Myrurgia launched "Besame," Spain was experiencing a cultural revival intertwined with its rich history of Moorish influence and a fascination with Orientalism. This period marked a reawakening of interest in Spain's Islamic heritage, which had deeply influenced its art, architecture, and even its language over centuries of Moorish rule. The Alhambra in Granada, for instance, stood as a testament to this fusion of Moorish and Spanish cultures, captivating imaginations with its intricate designs and lush gardens.
Orientalism, a trend romanticizing Eastern cultures and aesthetics, was at its peak during this time across Europe. Spain, with its proximity to North Africa and historical ties to the Moorish world, particularly embraced this fascination. Films of the era often depicted exotic settings and themes influenced by Orientalist fantasies, showcasing a blend of mystery, sensuality, and luxury.
Myrurgia's choice of the name "Besame" for its perfume reflects this cultural milieu. In Spanish, "Besame" translates to "kiss me," evoking notions of romance, passion, and allure. Such a name would resonate deeply with women of the time period, inviting them to indulge in fantasies of seduction and elegance.
For women in the 1920s, a perfume named "Besame" would symbolize sophistication and sensuality. It would be seen as more than just a fragrance; it would embody an essence of allure and femininity, aligning with the liberated spirit of the Roaring Twenties.
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.
In 1922, the year "Suspiro de Granada" was launched by Myrurgia, Spain was immersed in a fascinating period of cultural revival known as the "Silver Age," characterized by a resurgence of arts and literature. Granada, a city steeped in rich history, was at the heart of this romantic era. Known for its magnificent Alhambra palace, Granada symbolized the pinnacle of Moorish architecture in Spain. The city's gardens, such as those in the Generalife, were famous for their lush flora, including jasmine and roses, which infused the air with delicate fragrances.
During this time, the allure of Granada inspired numerous artists, writers, and filmmakers. Works like Washington Irving's "Tales of the Alhambra" (1832) had already established Granada as a mythical, romantic destination in the Western imagination. Films and literature of the early 20th century continued to portray Granada as a place of passion, beauty, and nostalgia, echoing the essence captured in the name "Suspiro de Granada."
"Suspiro de Granada" translates to "Sigh of Granada" in English. The name evokes a sense of longing and yearning, encapsulating the melancholic yet enchanting atmosphere of Granada's landscapes and historical legacy. Myrurgia, in choosing this name for their perfume, aimed to evoke the emotions and imagery associated with Granada - a place where the past whispers through the scent of flowers and the echoes of history.
Bosquet d’Apollon by Rosine: launched in 1922. The name means "The Grove of Apollo" and represents Versailles.
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