Hahna by Rosine c1919

Hahna by Rosine: launched in 1919. Created by Henri Alméras. It was subtitled both "L'Étrange Fleur" (The Strange Flower) and "La Fleur Secrète (The Secret Flower)."

The name "Hahna" is a play on the Japanese word "hana" meaning "flower".

Qui Es-Tu? by Rosine c1926

The perfume Qui Es-Tu? by Rosine was launched in 1926, a time period characterized by profound cultural and social changes, particularly for women. The Roaring Twenties, or the Jazz Age, was an era of liberation and modernity following the end of World War I. This decade witnessed significant shifts in fashion, art, and societal norms. Women were increasingly asserting their independence, gaining the right to vote in many countries, and exploring new freedoms in both their personal and public lives. The flapper style emerged, symbolizing a break from traditional roles, with women adopting shorter hairstyles, wearing more daring clothing, and embracing a lifestyle that included greater social and sexual freedom.

The name Qui Es-Tu?, meaning "Who are you?" in French, is particularly fitting for a perfume launched in this transformative period. Perfumes are deeply personal and often seen as an extension of one’s identity. By naming the fragrance "Who are you?", it suggests a reflection on identity and individuality, resonating with the contemporary woman who was navigating a rapidly changing world and redefining her role within it. The question implies a sense of introspection and self-discovery, encouraging the wearer to consider her own uniqueness and personal style.

Henri Alméras, the creator of the perfume, and Paul Poiret, the influential fashion designer and founder of Parfums de Rosine, were both known for their innovative and bold approaches. Poiret, in particular, was a pioneer in freeing women from the constraints of the corset and embracing more fluid and artistic expressions of fashion. The choice of a name like Qui Es-Tu? reflects Poiret's avant-garde vision and his understanding of the contemporary woman’s quest for identity and self-expression.

The appeal of this name to women of the 1920s lies in its alignment with the spirit of the times. As women were exploring new roles and asserting their independence, a perfume that posed a question about identity would naturally resonate. It wasn’t merely about the scent but about what the scent represented—an exploration of self, an invitation to define oneself beyond societal expectations, and a celebration of individuality. Women of that era would find this name appealing because it mirrored their own experiences and aspirations, making them feel understood and empowered.

In essence, the name Qui Es-Tu? could be seen as both the perfume asking its wearer to contemplate her identity and the wearer asking the world to recognize and acknowledge her true self. It encapsulates the dynamic interplay between personal introspection and societal recognition, making it a powerful and relevant choice for the modern woman of the 1920s.

Ambre de Venise by Rosine c1925

In the context of Venice in the early 20th century, the launch of Ambre de Venise around 1925 by Paul Poiret's House of Rosine evokes a rich tapestry of historical and cultural imagery. Venice, historically a major port and trade hub, was renowned for its bustling commerce with the East. Merchant ships brought a plethora of exotic goods, including essences and spices, from faraway lands. Ships from Arabia often transported ambergris, a rare and valuable substance used in perfumery. Venetian perfumers were among the first in Europe to utilize these luxurious materials.

The 1920s in Venice was a period of significant artistic and cultural activity. It was a time when the city attracted writers, artists, and the wealthy elite, making it a symbol of sophistication and luxury. The fascination with the exotic, combined with the glamour of the Jazz Age, made themes of far-off places and luxurious materials very appealing.

The name "Ambre de Venise" immediately conjures images of Venice's grandeur and its historical association with trade and exotic goods. It suggests a perfume crafted from rare and precious ingredients. Ambergris was considered a highly prized ingredient in perfumery, known for its unique and intoxicating scent. Associating the perfume with ambergris underscores its luxurious nature. The mention of "amber" also implies warmth, depth, and sensuality, qualities highly desirable in a perfume.

Paul Poiret was known for his opulent and innovative designs. Naming a perfume "Ambre de Venise" aligns with his brand's emphasis on luxury, exoticism, and artistic flair. It also suggests a connection to history and tradition, which would appeal to customers who appreciate both the old-world charm and the modern sophistication Poiret represented. The name "Ambre de Venise" evokes romantic and sensory imagery: the bustling Venetian ports, the mingling scents of spices and the sea, the opulent palaces, and the city's artistic heritage. It stirs feelings of mystery, adventure, and sophistication, making the perfume not just a scent but an experience of cultural and historical richness.

Women in the 1920s, especially those in the social and cultural elite, were drawn to sophisticated and exotic products. A perfume with a name like "Ambre de Venise" would have been seen as a mark of distinction. The allure of the exotic was a significant trend in the 1920s, with many women embracing styles and products that hinted at adventure and worldliness. Wearing a perfume named "Ambre de Venise" would allow women to express a sense of luxury and refined taste. It also offered a way to connect with the romantic and glamorous ideals of the era, embodying the spirit of exploration and opulence.

Ambergris was used in perfume primarily because of its unique properties. It has a complex, musky, and sweet scent that enhances and stabilizes other fragrances, giving them greater depth and longevity. Additionally, ambergris has fixative properties, meaning it helps other scent components to bind together and last longer when applied to the skin. Its rarity and the difficulty of obtaining it also contributed to its status as a luxurious and coveted ingredient in high-end perfumes.

In conclusion, Ambre de Venise by Rosine, launched around 1925, would have been a highly appealing name for a perfume due to its rich connotations of Venetian trade, exoticism, and luxury. Paul Poiret's choice reflects his brand's identity and the cultural trends of the period, capturing the imagination of women who desired both sophistication and a touch of the exotic in their personal style.