Violette de la Reine by Prince Matchabelli c1924

Violette de la Reine was introduced in 1924 by Prince Matchabelli, a name carefully chosen to evoke a sense of regal elegance and sophisticated charm. The title translates from French as "Violet of the Queen" a name that suggests both opulence and a direct connection to the brand's royal aspirations. In this context, "Violette" refers to the violet flower, a symbol of modesty and delicate beauty, while "de la Reine" means "of the Queen," imbuing the fragrance with an air of royal prestige and grace.

The name conjures images of a noble court, where violets might be the favored flower of a queen, lending an aura of luxury and refinement to the perfume. For women of the 1920s, a period marked by a flourish of both fashion and fragrance experimentation, the name "Violette de la Reine" would have evoked an image of classic elegance combined with the sophistication of high society. The notion of a queen's violet would suggest a fragrance that is not only refined and beautiful but also carries a hint of nobility and exclusivity.

In the context of the 1920s fragrance market, this violet soliflore stood out for its purity and focus. Soliflore perfumes, which highlight a single floral note, were somewhat unconventional at a time when complex and multi-layered compositions were becoming increasingly popular. "Violette de la Reine" offered a straightforward yet luxurious interpretation of violet, appealing to those who desired a more classic and singularly elegant olfactory experience. 

While it aligned with the era’s penchant for sophistication and refinement, its dedication to the violet note set it apart from the more elaborate fragrances of the time, reflecting a timeless and regal quality that resonated deeply with its intended audience.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It was classified as a violet soliflore fragrance for women. It was describe as "a light scent" having "the pungent sweetness of violets in the rain."

• Top notes: violet, cassie, bergamot, geranium
• Middle notes: violet, orris, rose, tuberose, jasmine
• Base notes: tolu balsam, vanilla, almonds, musk, ambrette

Scent Profile:

In the fragrance "Violette de la Reine de Matchabelli," each ingredient contributes to a composition that is both singularly elegant and richly nuanced. The fragrance opens with a crisp and invigorating burst of violet, its delicate, powdery sweetness immediately enveloping you in a sense of gentle sophistication. 

Alongside it, cassie introduces a subtly honeyed note with a soft, green edge, adding a warm, sunlit quality to the initial impression. The bergamot then provides a fresh, citrusy sparkle, brightening the fragrance with its zesty and effervescent character, while geranium offers a hint of rosy green freshness, balancing the opening with its herbaceous, slightly minty nuance.

As the fragrance evolves into its heart, the violet note persists, deepening in its complexity and intertwining with the soft, velvety texture of orris. This ingredient imparts a rich, buttery smoothness with a nuanced, powdery quality that complements the violet’s initial sweetness. 

The addition of rose brings a classic floral opulence to the blend, its rich, romantic scent layering effortlessly with the violet and orris. Tuberose introduces an exotic, creamy depth with its intoxicatingly lush and opulent aroma, while jasmine infuses the heart with its sweet, heady fragrance, adding a layer of warmth and sensuality.

In the base notes, tolu balsam contributes a balsamic richness, enveloping the fragrance with its resinous, slightly spicy sweetness. This is harmonized by the smooth, comforting aroma of vanilla, which adds a creamy, indulgent sweetness that enhances the overall depth of the scent. 

Almonds introduce a subtle nutty nuance, their warm, sweet aroma adding a hint of rich, indulgent complexity. The base is rounded out by musk and ambrette, which provide a soft, sensual, and slightly animalistic warmth, giving the fragrance a lasting, enveloping finish that lingers delicately on the skin.

Together, these base notes complete the fragrance with a velvety, rich trail that enhances the elegant and refined character of the violet soliflore.

Fate of the Fragrance:

"Violette de la Reine de Matchabelli" was a distinctive fragrance that captured the essence of elegance and refinement with its violet soliflore composition. Although the exact date of its discontinuation remains unknown, it was still available for purchase as late as 1928. This persistence on the market suggests that the fragrance held a significant appeal and continued to resonate with consumers well into the late 1920s.

The discontinuation of "Violette de la Reine de Matchabelli" may have been influenced by various factors, including shifts in consumer preferences, changes in production priorities, or broader industry trends. As the perfume landscape evolved, so did the demands and tastes of the market, potentially leading to the phase-out of this particular scent. Despite its eventual discontinuation, the fragrance's enduring presence in the late 1920s highlights its lasting impact and the appreciation it garnered from those who experienced its delicate, violet-centric charm.