Antinea by Rosine c1922

The launch of the perfume Antinea by Rosine in 1922 coincided with a period of burgeoning artistic and cultural exploration known as the Roaring Twenties. This era was characterized by a spirit of liberation, innovation, and a fascination with the exotic and the unknown. Society was captivated by stories of exploration, discovery, and mythical tales, which permeated literature, art, and fashion.

The name "Antinea" would have been particularly appealing for a perfume during this time. Antinea, as the legendary figure from Pierre Benoit's novel "L'Atlantide," symbolized a femme fatale archetype—mysterious, alluring, and enigmatic. She was the queen of Atlantis, a mythical city submerged beneath the sea, embodying both beauty and danger. Women of the 1920s were increasingly asserting their independence and breaking away from traditional roles, seeking to embody qualities of empowerment and allure. Antinea represented a compelling figure of feminine strength and allure, resonating with women who sought to challenge conventions and embrace their own sensuality and mystique.

The connection to Pierre Benoit's novel adds a sophisticated layer of intrigue to the perfume. It suggests a blend of literature and artistry, appealing to those with a penchant for storytelling and romance. The fragrance itself, inspired by the mysterious depths of the sea and the mythical allure of Atlantis, would evoke a sense of adventure and exoticism. Imagine wearing a scent that transports you to the ethereal beauty of underwater realms, evoking images of hidden treasures and lost civilizations.

For women of the 1920s, wearing Antinea would have been more than just applying a fragrance—it would have been a statement. It would signify a connection to mythical narratives, a celebration of feminine allure and strength, and a way to indulge in the romanticism of lost worlds and unexplored mysteries. The allure of Antinea lay not only in its captivating scent but also in its ability to evoke a sense of fantasy and escapism, appealing to the imaginations of those who dared to dream beyond the ordinary.

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 is a timeless fragrance that first graced the olfactory landscape in 1919, marking its debut in the United States by the illustrious year of 1923. Crafted by the masterful hands of Henri Alméras, this scent embodies a symphony of nuanced notes that dance harmoniously on the skin.

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.