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.

Eve Reve by Rigaud c1957

Eve Reve by Rigaud: launched in 1957. Created by Mario Rigaud.

Eve Reve was lauded by French writer Louise de Vilmorin as “the Fragrance of Paradise”. It was named by Vilmorin because it is as female and as alluring as Eve.

Parfumerie Rigaud

In this guide I have listed the various perfumes produced by Rigaud of Paris France & New York City.

Mary Garden Perfumes & Toiletries

In this guide I have listed the various toiletries and perfumes bearing the brand name Mary Garden.

Un Air Embaume by Rigaud c1914

In 1914, Henri Rigaud became the sole proprietor of the French perfumery Veuve (widow) Rigaud, renaming the house simply “Rigaud.” To mark this pivotal moment, he launched the iconic fragrance “Un Air Embaumé” — a name that evokes a sense of poetic beauty and escapism.

The phrase “Un Air Embaumé” is French, pronounced roughly as "uhn air ahm-boh-MAY". Translated, it means “A Perfumed Breeze” or “A Scented Air.” The words stir imagery of a soft, fragrant wind carrying the delicate aromas of blooming flowers and sun-warmed earth — a gentle, enveloping sensation both comforting and alluring. The phrase conjures feelings of serenity and romance, as though one were transported to an idyllic garden, infused with the sweet, heady scent of blossoms on a warm, tranquil afternoon.

The year 1914 was a time of profound transition. Europe was on the cusp of World War I, and the era leading up to this moment was known as the Belle Époque — the “Beautiful Era.” This period, spanning from the 1870s to 1914, was characterized by a flourishing of the arts, culture, and luxury. Paris, the heart of fashion and perfumery, embodied a spirit of elegance, optimism, and indulgence. Women’s fashion embraced fluid, softer silhouettes inspired by Paul Poiret, freeing them from restrictive corsets. Delicate silks, oriental embroidery, and pastel palettes reigned, while elaborate hats and art nouveau jewelry completed the look. Society reveled in the romanticism of theater, opera, and café culture, all against the backdrop of Parisian grandeur.