Duchess of York by Prince Matchabelli c1934

Duchess of York by Prince Matchabelli: launched in 1934. Dedicated to Mary Beatrice, Duchess of York, 1658-1718.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral fragrance for women. It was described as "the unforgettable sweetness of purple English lilacs and slipper flower bottled for the woman of impeccable breeding and quiet good taste".

Also said to be an "English garden bouquet."

Another advertisement claimed it was ""Persian lilac from the Black Sea Riviera. A scent as stabbing to the masculine heart as a fair face with a tragic past."

I would need a better sample to tell you what it smells like.

• Top notes: lady's slipper 
• Middle notes: lilac and jasmine
• Base notes:

Home Journal - Volume 84, 1927:

"Prince Matchabelli's Duchess of York perfume (lilac) in coroneted bottles, $10, $18, $35."

The New Yorker - Volume 11 - Page 47, 1935:

"Matchabelli : The best still is Duchess of York (lilac), but Grace Moore (tantalizing and spicy), Princess Norina, and Empress of India (very exotic and Oriental) are in great demand."

Bottles:

bottle, green glass (not flashed), gold trim, 2". Photo from Richard D. Hatch & Associates

2 oz clear and gilded bottle. Photo from worthopedia

Unusual bottle shape and opaque red color for Prince Matchabelli. Bottle designed for the fragrance Duchess of York. Bottle stands approximately 3.75" tall. Red glass bottle is acid marked Made in France, Prince Matchabelli on the bottom. 

In 1938, Matchabelli introduced new boudoir accessories to perfume the room. Lingerie sets of satin with taffeta linings which were scented with Duchess of York sachet. There were aso satin bedside pockets and satin covers for hot water bottles to brighten the hours of the convalescent.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued, date unknown.

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