Antinea by Rosine c1922

Antinea, launched by Paul Poiret in 1922, was a bold and evocative fragrance that drew on both myth and modernity, perfectly capturing the spirit of its time. The name "Antinea" is derived from the legendary character in Pierre Benoit’s novel L'Atlantide, published in 1919. In the novel, Antinea is a captivating and enigmatic queen who rules over the lost city of Atlantis. She is portrayed as a powerful femme fatale, mysterious and dangerously seductive, embodying both the beauty and perils of the ocean’s depths. The name Antinea itself is pronounced “An-tee-eh-nah” (with a soft emphasis on the second syllable), and in this context, it evokes images of ancient ruins, a mystical underwater world, and a woman whose allure is both intoxicating and perilous. It conjures emotions of longing, curiosity, and a sense of foreboding—drawing parallels to the attraction and danger inherent in the unknown.

The early 1920s, when Antinea was launched, were a time of significant social and cultural transformation. The aftermath of World War I gave rise to the "Roaring Twenties," an era marked by dramatic shifts in fashion, art, and social norms. The spirit of modernity and liberation, coupled with a growing fascination for the exotic, influenced not only the visual arts but also the world of perfumery. This was the age of Art Deco—a style characterized by geometric elegance, vibrant colors, and the blending of opulence with industrial design. Women of the period were rejecting traditional roles and embracing a more daring and independent lifestyle, epitomized by the flapper. Antinea, with its name and fragrance, was a perfect match for this moment of bold reinvention and exploration of the unknown, as it captured a sense of adventure, mystery, and exoticism.

Hahna by Rosine c1919

In the early 20th century, particularly around the time of Hahna's launch in 1919, Europe was captivated by a trend known as Japonism, a fascination with Japanese art, culture, and aesthetics. This movement heavily influenced fashion, art, and even perfumery in Western societies. Paul Poiret, a prominent figure in French fashion at the time, was known for his avant-garde designs and was deeply inspired by the Orient, particularly Japanese motifs and themes. His designs often featured kimono-style silhouettes, intricate embroidery, and bold use of colors and patterns reminiscent of Japanese textiles.

Against this backdrop of Japonism, the launch of Hahna perfume by Rosine in 1919 reflects the prevailing cultural interest in Japanese elements. The name "Hahna," derived from the Japanese word "hana" meaning "flower," aligns with the trend of incorporating exotic and mystical Eastern references into Western luxury goods. Poiret and other contemporaries would have appreciated the evocative power of a name like "Hahna," conjuring images of delicate blossoms, serene gardens, and the allure of the mysterious East.

For women of the time period, a perfume named "Hahna" would have offered a sense of escapism and sophistication. The fragrance, subtitled "L'Étrange Fleur" (The Strange Flower) and "La Fleur Secrète" (The Secret Flower), suggests an air of mystery and allure, promising wearers a unique olfactory experience akin to discovering a hidden, exotic bloom.

Arlequinade by Rosine c1919

Arlequinade by Rosine, launched in 1919 and introduced to the American market in 1923, was a fragrance born from the artistic and cultural renaissance that defined the early 20th century. The name Arlequinade is derived from the French word arlequinade (pronounced ar-luh-kee-NAHD), which refers to the antics or performances of Harlequin, a central figure in the Commedia dell'Arte. This theatrical tradition, with its masked characters and vibrant, exaggerated performances, originated in Italy and flourished in France, inspiring countless artists, writers, and designers—including Paul Poiret. The word Arlequinade evokes a world of playful deception, mischief, and romance, conjuring images of diamond-patterned costumes, masked balls, and the whimsical yet cunning personality of Harlequin himself. It suggests a fragrance that is both intriguing and unpredictable, much like the character it references.

The perfume's debut coincided with a dynamic cultural period—Les Années Folles (The Roaring Twenties), an era of artistic experimentation, modernism, and social liberation. World War I had ended, and society was undergoing a dramatic transformation, particularly for women. This was the age of the flapper, a woman who rejected Victorian constraints in favor of short dresses, bobbed hair, and an independent spirit. Art, music, and fashion were infused with influences from Cubism, Futurism, and Art Deco, reflecting a fascination with bold shapes, geometric designs, and a break from tradition. Against this backdrop, perfumery embraced more daring compositions, moving away from the delicate floral scents of the Belle Époque toward richer, spicier, and more complex blends.

Toute La Foret by Rosine c1911

Toute La Foret by Rosine: launched in 1911. The name means "The Whole Forest". Created to evoke memories of happy hours in Fontainebleau, with a scent of undergrowth (herbal and forest flowers). Raoul Dufy created a stylized print of leaves and birds used for promotional items including scented cards.

The perfume was a favorite of American actress Mary Pickford.