Avenue du Bois by Rosine c1912

The fragrance Avenue du Bois by Rosine was introduced in 1912, amidst the vibrant cultural milieu of the Belle Époque in Paris. This era, characterized by economic prosperity and artistic flourishing, saw Paris as a center of sophistication and elegance. The perfume's name, translating to "Avenue of the Woods" in French, pays homage to the prestigious Avenue du Bois leading to the Bois de Boulogne, a renowned park in Paris known for its natural beauty and leisurely atmosphere.

During the Belle Époque, the Bois de Boulogne and its surrounding avenues were favored by the wealthy and fashionable elite of Paris. These areas were synonymous with leisurely strolls, carriage rides, and social gatherings among the well-dressed residents and visitors of the city. The choice of naming a perfume after Avenue du Bois would have been particularly appealing for its associations with elegance, refinement, and historical significance.

The name Avenue du Bois suggests a connection to both nature and luxury. It evokes images of tree-lined avenues, elegant homes, and the opulent lifestyle of the Belle Époque era. Moreover, the avenue was home to notable figures like Jacques Doucet, whose residence further adds to the allure of exclusivity and sophistication associated with the fragrance.

In summary, Avenue du Bois by Rosine, launched in 1912, captures the essence of a bygone era in Parisian history. The name not only reflects the natural beauty and leisurely ambiance of the Avenue du Bois leading to the Bois de Boulogne but also resonates with the elegance and luxury of the Belle Époque period, appealing to those who appreciate the historical and cultural richness of early 20th-century Paris.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like?   It is described as a "delightful woodsy odeur." Avenue du Bois had a low level of the C-12 MNA aldehyde which gave it facets of fresh amber, aldehydes, moss, citrus, tuberose, metallic, waxy, and coumarin.

It was described as having a "gentle woodsy fragrance, perfect for the gracious middle aged matron."

Poiret also advised the gray haired women to wear fragrances that had notes of lilac or violet, so I would imagine that this perfume had at least one or both.

• Top notes: citrus, aldehydes, lily
• Middle notes: violet, lilac, tuberose, rose, jasmine
• Base notes: sandalwood, tonka bean, oakmoss, labdanum, musk, ambergris, patchouli

Scent Profile:

In the bustling elegance of Avenue du Bois during the Belle Époque era, the fragrance of Avenue du Bois by Rosine unfolds like a sensory journey through a wooded enclave.

The top notes greet me first with a burst of citrus, reminiscent of ripe oranges and lemons freshly plucked from sun-kissed orchards. As I inhale deeper, delicate aldehydes dance on the breeze, their effervescence adding a sparkling effulgence to the air. Amidst the citrus and aldehydes, there's a subtle hint of lilies blooming nearby, their soft petals lending a touch of floral sweetness to the atmosphere.

Moving into the heart of the fragrance, I encounter the lush florals that define its character. Violet and lilac weave together in a harmonious bouquet, their powdery yet vibrant aromas invoking images of meticulously tended gardens along the avenue. Tuberose and rose add depth and complexity, their rich, velvety scents mingling with jasmine's intoxicating allure. Each inhalation brings a new layer of floral opulence, evoking the refined tastes of the era's matrons.

As the fragrance settles into its base notes, the ambiance deepens with the comforting warmth of sandalwood and the sweet, nutty nuances of tonka bean. Oakmoss lends a touch of earthiness, grounding the composition with its mossy aroma that conjures visions of ancient trees shading the avenue. Labdanum and musk impart a subtle sensuality, while ambergris adds a hint of maritime intrigue. Patchouli's spicy, woody undertones linger on my senses, creating a lasting impression of sophistication and refinement.

Amidst the olfactory symphony of Avenue du Bois, I can almost hear the rustle of silk skirts brushing against polished cobblestones, the soft murmur of conversation among the well-heeled residents, and the distant clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages. The fragrance encapsulates the essence of a bygone era, where every note tells a story of elegance, grace, and timeless beauty along this illustrious avenue.

Bottle:

The perfume Avenue du Bois by Rosine was presented in a striking glass bottle that captivated the eye with its unusual design, resembling an abstract silhouette reminiscent of a violin. The clear glass vessel was adorned with a dome-shaped gilded stopper, intricately molded with numerous fine ribs that added a tactile elegance to its appearance. Wrapped around the middle of the bottle was a delicate multicolored cord, adding a touch of artisanal charm to the overall presentation.

Adding to its allure, the bottle was adorned with a simple yet refined brick-red and gold embossed paper label. The label, with scalloped edges, adorned the belly of the bottle, while another encircled its neck, imparting a sense of sophistication and attention to detail. This meticulous craftsmanship extended to the packaging—a box echoing the distinctive shape of the bottle, clad in pale green paper adorned with then-modern images of the Avenue du Bois. The illustrations depicted bustling scenes with automobiles and pedestrians leisurely strolling along, capturing the spirit of the Belle Époque era when the fragrance was introduced.

Together, the bottle and its packaging not only housed the exquisite fragrance but also served as a testament to the elegance and artistic flair of the time. They offered a glimpse into a world of luxury, refinement, and artistic sophistication that defined the era in which Avenue du Bois by Rosine made its debut.

Fate of the Fragrance:

It appears that Avenue du Bois by Rosine was still available for sale as late as 1929, according to records found in the Official Journal: Body of the Provisional Government of Mexico. This volume listed a variety of Rosine perfumes, including Avenue du Bois, among others such as Ambre de Venise, Arlequinade, Borgia, and many more distinctive scents from the Rosine collection.

Despite its eventual discontinuation, which the specific date is unknown, the inclusion of Avenue du Bois in this catalog demonstrates its popularity and enduring presence well into the early 20th century. Each perfume from Rosine seems to have carried its own allure and character, catering to a diverse range of olfactory preferences and aesthetic tastes prevalent during that time perio