Parfum de Ma Marraine by Rosine c1915

The launch of "Parfum de Ma Marraine" in 1915 occurred during a poignant period deeply impacted by the First World War. This era was characterized by soldiers being stationed far from home, often writing letters to their loved ones and receiving care packages in return. The exchanges of letters and small gifts were a lifeline connecting soldiers to their families and sweethearts, providing comfort and a sense of closeness amidst the turmoil of war.

If a soldier sent a letter but received no reply, it would evoke feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and longing. The lack of response could suggest various scenarios—from logistical delays to more distressing possibilities like injury or loss.

"Parfum de Ma Marraine," translating to "My Godmother's Perfume," is a deeply evocative name for a perfume launched during this time. A godmother traditionally holds a special place in one's life, often symbolizing guidance, care, and affection. Naming a perfume after such a figure suggests nurturing, comfort, and a personal connection that transcends distance and adversity. It resonates with the sentiments of soldiers finding solace in memories of loved ones and the familiar scents that remind them of home.

Paul Poiret, the designer behind the perfume, likely chose this name to evoke nostalgia, warmth, and emotional resonance. In a time of war, when many sought moments of tenderness and familiarity, a perfume named after a godmother's scent encapsulates a yearning for stability and the enduring bonds of love and support.

The appeal of "Parfum de Ma Marraine" lies in its ability to transport wearers and evoke emotions of nostalgia and connection to loved ones. During the First World War, such sentiments were particularly powerful as people sought comfort amidst uncertainty and upheaval. Women of the period would likely be drawn to a perfume that promised to evoke such heartfelt emotions and memories.

In essence, "Parfum de Ma Marraine" by Rosine launched in 1915 encapsulates a moment in history where personal connections, memories of loved ones, and the desire for comfort and reassurance were paramount. Its name and presentation in a classic checked handkerchief within a rustic envelope resonated deeply with the spirit of the times, offering a fragrant reminder of cherished relationships amidst the chaos of war.

 

Los Angeles Times, 1918:

"Parfum de la Marraine - has this to say for itself, "For the soldiers of France; my godmother's perfume, enveloped in the classic checked handkerchief, and well made in its rustic envelope to brave the dangers of a trip." The perfume is encased in a tube, which encloses a handkerchief within."

In 1918, the Los Angeles Times featured a description of "Parfum de la Marraine" that encapsulated the essence of the perfume's design and purpose during the First World War. The article highlighted the perfume's intended audience: the soldiers of France. It portrayed the fragrance as a poignant homage to the godmotherly figures in their lives, suggesting a blend that was evocative of familiarity and comfort amidst the harsh realities of war.

The perfume was presented in a thoughtful manner, encapsulated within a tube that also enclosed a classic checked handkerchief. This packaging choice was not merely aesthetic but practical, designed to withstand the rigors of travel and the dangers of wartime transport. The handkerchief, a symbol of utility and personal connection, was carefully integrated into a rustic envelope, enhancing its resilience and conveying a sense of heartfelt craftsmanship.

The description in the Los Angeles Times underscores the perfume's dual purpose: to evoke memories of godmothers who provided solace and support, and to offer a tangible reminder of home and loved ones left behind. The choice of packaging, combining fragrance with a practical item like a handkerchief, speaks to the perfume's intention to provide both emotional comfort and a useful token that soldiers could carry with them.

Overall, the depiction of "Parfum de la Marraine" in the 1918 Los Angeles Times reflects a period deeply affected by the First World War, where products like this perfume played a role in sustaining morale and connection amidst separation and hardship. Its design and messaging resonated with the sentiments of the time, offering a small but meaningful gesture of care and remembrance for those serving on the front lines.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? I have no notes on this perfume, but I imagine it would be based on the various perfumes from the Victorian era, including bergamot, lavender, patchouli, orange blossom, rose, jasmine, violet, orris, musk, sandalwood and ambergris.

 

Scent Profile:

As you step into your godmother's house, the air is filled with a delicate symphony of scents that evoke a sense of comfort and love. The first note that reaches your senses is the fresh and uplifting aroma of bergamot, reminiscent of sunny citrus groves. It mingles seamlessly with the calming presence of lavender, its herbal fragrance gently wafting through the air like a soft embrace.

In the heart of the room, a bouquet of orange blossoms and roses exudes a sweet and floral essence, reminiscent of the garden just outside her kitchen window. The jasmine and violet notes add a touch of elegance, their delicate petals intertwining with the warm, powdery scent of orris, evoking memories of cherished moments spent with your godmother.

Amidst the fragrant bouquet, you catch a hint of musk, subtly weaving through the air like a comforting whisper. It adds a depth and warmth to the atmosphere, reminiscent of cozy evenings spent together by the fireplace. The sandalwood and ambergris create a soft, creamy base that envelops you in a soothing embrace, like the touch of your godmother's hand on your shoulder.

As you breathe in deeply, you notice a faint scent of vanilla and spices, drifting from the kitchen where your godmother is known for her delectable desserts. It blends harmoniously with the floral and woody notes, creating a sensory experience that feels both familiar and enchanting.

In the midst of these comforting scents, you notice a delicate handkerchief placed on a table nearby. The perfume, encased within its folds, enhances the experience with its nostalgic blend of fragrances. It's as if each note has been carefully chosen to capture the essence of your godmother's love and warmth, creating a fragrance that not only delights the senses but also touches the heart.

In this moment, surrounded by the comforting scents of bergamot, lavender, patchouli, orange blossom, rose, jasmine, violet, orris, musk, sandalwood, and ambergris, with the presence of your godmother's handkerchief adding a personal touch, you feel a deep sense of connection and peace. It's a fragrance that embodies the cherished memories and enduring love of your godmother's home—a scent that you carry with you, like a gentle reminder of her comforting embrace.

Bottles:

A small vial was concealed inside of a handkerchief, and placed inside a tube to protect it during travel.   

Fate of the Fragrance:

It appears that "Parfum de Ma Marraine" by Rosine was still available as late as 1918, as evidenced by the mention in the Los Angeles Times from that year. However, historical records often do not specify exact discontinuation dates for perfumes, especially those from the early 20th century.

Perfume availability and discontinuation can be influenced by various factors such as changes in fashion, shifts in consumer preferences, economic conditions, and even wartime disruptions. Given its association with the First World War and its homage to soldiers and godmothers, the perfume may have enjoyed popularity during that period but could have eventually been phased out as styles and trends evolved.

For precise information on when "Parfum de Ma Marraine" was discontinued, one would typically need to consult historical perfume catalogs, trade publications, or specialized archives that document the lifespan of fragrances from that era.