Launched in 1942, Gypsy Patteran by Prince Matchabelli carries a name rich with evocative imagery and historical significance. The term "Gypsy Patteran" draws from the Romani word "patteran," which refers to the practice of leaving small markers or trails made of grass, flowers and branches. These markers, known as "gypsy trails," were used by Romani travelers to signal their route and provide guidance to fellow wanderers. This concept of leaving a trail of clues resonates deeply with the idea of exploration and mystery, evoking images of a nomadic lifestyle filled with adventure and intrigue.
The name "Gypsy Patteran" conjures a sense of wanderlust and the untamed spirit of the Romani people, suggesting a fragrance that is both exotic and alluring. The term evokes emotions of curiosity and wanderlust, painting a picture of a journey through unknown and enchanting landscapes. As a perfume, "Gypsy Patteran" might be interpreted as an invitation to embrace a sense of adventure and sophistication, blending the mysterious allure of the gypsy lifestyle with a refined and elegant fragrance.
In the early 1940s, a period marked by both global upheaval and a yearning for escapism, a perfume like Gypsy Patteran would have offered a unique olfactory escape. The 1940s fragrance market saw a range of scents, from the soft florals of the pre-war years to the more intense and exotic compositions that emerged during the war years. Gypsy Patteran’s designation as a spicy cologne for women aligns with a broader trend of fragrances featuring bold and distinctive spice notes, which provided a contrast to the more traditional floral offerings. However, its specific theme and name set it apart from its contemporaries, offering a more adventurous and mysterious alternative.
During this era, the fascination with Romani culture and themes of travel and adventure were also reflected in popular media. Films and literature often romanticized the idea of the gypsy lifestyle, emphasizing themes of freedom and mystique. Gypsy Patteran’s name and fragrance would have resonated with these cultural trends, appealing to women who sought a scent that embodied both the exotic and the refined, mirroring the allure and complexity of the times.
So what does it smell like? It was described as "Revel in the romantic fragrance of Prince Matchabelli's delightful Gypsy Patteran. A strange wonderful light-hearted scent...heady with fresh wild flowers and spices..the excitement and flame of gypsy fires..and mad gypsy music".
- Top notes: bergamot, lemon, coriander, cardamom
- Middle notes: violet, ylang-ylang, honeysuckle, lily of the valley, jasmine, rose, clove
- Base notes: cinnamon, patchouli, sandalwood, musk, amber, vanilla
Scent Profile:
As you experience Gypsy Patteran by Prince Matchabelli, the fragrance unfolds with an exhilarating blend of top notes that create a vibrant and engaging opening. The initial burst of bergamot greets you with its bright, citrusy aroma, reminiscent of sunlit groves and invigorating freshness. This is swiftly followed by the zesty sharpness of lemon, which adds a crisp, tangy edge that energizes the senses. The coriander introduces a hint of spiciness, its warm, slightly woody scent weaving through the citrus notes and hinting at the exotic nature of the fragrance. Cardamom adds a rich, aromatic spice, contributing a sweet warmth that envelops the fragrance in an inviting and complex character.
As the top notes recede, the heart of the perfume reveals a captivating bouquet of floral notes that evoke the essence of untamed beauty. Violet emerges with its delicate, powdery sweetness, evoking the charm of blooming wildflowers. This is complemented by the exotic, creamy richness of ylang-ylang, which adds a sensual and slightly fruity dimension. Honeysuckle brings a sweet, warm floral note that enhances the fragrance's romantic appeal. Lily of the valley introduces a fresh, green, and slightly dewy floral aroma, adding a touch of lightness and purity. Jasmine then unfolds with its heady, opulent scent, enveloping you in a warm, intoxicating embrace. Rose contributes a classic, elegant floral note with a soft, sweet richness, while clove adds a spicy, warm depth that hints at the fiery excitement of gypsy music and the allure of distant lands.
The base notes provide a warm, sensual foundation that lingers long after the initial freshness has faded. Cinnamon introduces a rich, spicy warmth that adds depth and complexity, reminiscent of the flickering flames of a gypsy fire. Patchouli contributes an earthy, woody undertone, grounding the fragrance with its robust and slightly mysterious scent. Sandalwood offers a creamy, smooth base that enhances the overall warmth and richness. Musk adds a soft, sensual quality, imparting a lingering, intimate warmth that complements the other elements. Amber introduces a resinous sweetness, enhancing the fragrance's complexity and depth. Finally, vanilla adds a creamy, sweet warmth that balances the spiciness and brings a touch of light-hearted indulgence to the composition.
Gypsy Patteran unfolds as a spicy, floral cologne that captures the essence of adventure, romance, and exotic allure. Its complex blend of fresh wildflowers and vibrant spices creates a unique and captivating scent, evoking the excitement and intensity of the gypsy lifestyle.
Bottles:
The "Cologne Carols" bottles, characterized by their distinctive flat disk shape, were used to house a range of colognes including Potpourri, Summer Shower, and Gypsy Patteran. These elegant flacons were meticulously manufactured by Swindell, Bros., Inc. of Baltimore, Maryland, known for their expertise in creating refined and functional glassware. The metal closures adorning these bottles were produced by the Brass Goods Manufacturing Co. of Deep River, Connecticut, adding a touch of craftsmanship and durability to the design.
Each bottle was presented in a uniquely charming box designed to resemble a tambourine. This presentation box was adorned with tiny, jingling bells and crafted from colorful, non-priority materials, contributing to its playful and festive appearance. The packaging featured effective shades of pale blue and fuchsia, which enhanced its visual appeal and added a whimsical touch. The tambourine-shaped box not only provided a protective enclosure for the fragrance but also served as a delightful accessory that complemented the bottle’s elegant design. The tambourine, both romantic and playful, was not only visually striking but also evoked the charm and excitement of old Seville, as noted in various contemporary publications.
The concept behind the name "Gypsy Patteran" added an intriguing layer to the fragrance’s allure. Derived from the Romani word "patteran," meaning the trail that gypsy maidens leave for their lovers to follow, the name suggested a sense of adventure and romantic pursuit. This evocative idea was reflected in the packaging, which encouraged customers to embrace the romance and excitement associated with the gypsy lifestyle. The cologne was priced at $1.25, making it an accessible luxury for many, while the tambourine box itself—embellished with jingling bells—added a touch of festive elegance.
Gypsy Patteran’s presentation in a tambourine-shaped box was widely recognized in the media of the time. Vogue described the cologne as "woven of scents as varied as the flowers in a gypsy lover's-wreath," highlighting its complex and romantic fragrance profile. The New Yorker and other publications also emphasized the cologne’s distinctive packaging and attractive price point. This creative and memorable packaging, combined with a spicy, evocative scent, made Gypsy Patteran a notable and celebrated offering in the fragrance market of the early 1940s.
Fate of the Fragrance:
Gypsy Patteran, the enchanting cologne by Prince Matchabelli, saw its popularity extend well beyond its initial release in 1942. Despite its discontinuation—date unknown—the fragrance continued to captivate customers and was still available for purchase as late as 1967. This enduring appeal underscores the lasting impact of Gypsy Patteran's unique blend of scents and its charming presentation.
The continued availability of Gypsy Patteran into the late 1960s reflects its success and the affection it garnered among its wearers. Its evocative name and imaginative packaging, which featured a tambourine-shaped box adorned with jingling bells, had made a lasting impression on the fragrance market. The cologne's complex, spicy composition, combined with its romantic and whimsical presentation, ensured that it remained a beloved choice for those seeking a distinctive and memorable scent.
The persistence of Gypsy Patteran on the market years after its introduction speaks to the effectiveness of its design and marketing. The fragrance's ability to capture the spirit of adventure and romance, paired with its striking and playful packaging, allowed it to remain relevant and cherished by consumers, even as new trends emerged. The enduring presence of Gypsy Patteran in stores highlights its lasting legacy and the timeless appeal of its unique olfactory profile.
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