Stradivari by Prince Matchabelli c1942

Stradivari by Prince Matchabelli, launched in 1942, was introduced during a period marked by the profound impacts of World War II. The war had reshaped industries, including the fragrance sector, with shortages of materials and a shift in consumer behavior towards practicality and austerity. Despite these challenges, the release of Stradivari signaled a return to the elegance and luxury that Prince Matchabelli was known for, offering women a touch of glamour in an era of rationing and restraint. This perfume, the first new scent from the company since the outbreak of the war, provided a moment of escape and a connection to the beauty that persisted even in difficult times.

The choice of the name "Stradivari" was deeply symbolic and evocative. Named after the Prince Matchabelli Orchestra, which was also formed in 1942, "Stradivari" refers to the legendary Italian luthier Antonio Stradivari, whose violins—known as Stradivarius—are celebrated for their unparalleled craftsmanship and exquisite sound. The name itself, of Italian origin, embodies the highest standards of artistic achievement and refinement. By naming the perfume "Stradivari," Prince Matchabelli aimed to evoke the same sense of timeless beauty and meticulous artistry that Stradivarius instruments represent. It suggested a fragrance composed with the same care and precision, offering a sensory experience as harmonious and balanced as a perfectly tuned symphony.

The word "Stradivari" conjures images of classic elegance, sophistication, and artistic mastery. It evokes emotions of admiration and aspiration, as Stradivarius instruments are not only rare and valuable but also symbols of enduring quality and beauty. In the world of perfume, the name "Stradivari" would be interpreted as a promise of a refined and well-crafted scent, one that resonates with a deep, rich complexity akin to the sounds produced by a Stradivarius violin. For women in the 1940s, a perfume named "Stradivari" would have been perceived as a luxurious and sophisticated choice, offering a sense of prestige and connection to the cultural richness that persisted despite the hardships of the war.

The launch of Stradivari occurred in a fragrance landscape that was influenced by the pre-war trends of opulent and complex scents but was also beginning to adapt to the changing realities of the war. Many fragrances of the time leaned towards comforting and familiar compositions, yet Stradivari, with its semi-oriental floral profile, stood out. Its dominant woody and spicy notes, set against a mossy background, offered a bold and sophisticated contrast to the simpler, lighter scents that were becoming more common. Stradivari was unique for its time, embodying a blend of resilience and elegance that resonated deeply with the women who wore it.

In the context of other fragrances on the market, Stradivari was distinctive. While the era saw a mix of floral, aldehydic, and chypre perfumes, Stradivari’s semi-oriental character and its rich, woody, and spicy notes set it apart. It offered a deeper, more complex fragrance experience, one that was both a reflection of the tumultuous times and a statement of enduring beauty and artistry. Stradivari was not just a perfume; it was a symbol of the power of craftsmanship and the ability to find grace and elegance even in the most challenging circumstances.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as semi-oriental floral fragrance for women with dominant woody and spicy notes against a mossy background. 

• Top notes: aldehydes, orange, Calabrian bergamot, nutmeg, lemon, cloves, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, bay, marjoram
• Middle notes: cardamom, lavender, basil, thyme, frankincense, carnation, rose, myrrh, jasmine, orris, ylang ylang
• Base notes: labdanum, oakmoss, benzoin, East Indian vetiver, patchouli, Mysore sandalwood, Abyssinian ambergris, cedar, Tibetan musk, civet, myrrh, vanilla

 I used a vintage 1950s bottle of the cologne parfumee to discern the notes as I was unable to find them in my reference materials.

Scent Profile:

In experiencing Stradivari, a semi-oriental floral fragrance, one begins with a vibrant and effervescent opening. The top notes immediately captivate with the sharp, sparkling quality of aldehydes, infusing the air with a clean, almost soapy freshness that dances lightly. This is followed by the zesty brightness of Calabrian bergamot and lemon, offering a burst of citrus that invigorates the senses. 

The warmth of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon quickly adds a spicy depth, mingling with the aromatic nuances of coriander and bay. This intricate blend creates a lively, spicy-fresh prelude that hints at the complexity to come.

As the top notes settle, the heart of Stradivari reveals a rich floral tapestry interwoven with aromatic herbs and resins. The lush, heady scent of jasmine and ylang ylang emerges, enveloping the senses in a creamy, floral sweetness. This is beautifully complemented by the subtle, powdery elegance of orris and the rich, spicy warmth of carnation. 

Lavender adds a hint of calming herbal freshness, while basil and thyme introduce a green, slightly savory facet that grounds the floral opulence. Frankincense and myrrh contribute a resinous depth, adding an exotic, smoky quality that enhances the semi-oriental character of the fragrance.

In the base, Stradivari unfolds with a deep, sensual complexity. The woody richness of Mysore sandalwood and East Indian vetiver creates a warm, creamy foundation that anchors the fragrance. Oakmoss and labdanum provide a mossy, earthy backdrop, lending an almost forest-like depth that is both grounding and expansive. 

The sweet, balsamic notes of benzoin and the subtle, amber-like warmth of Abyssinian ambergris enrich the scent with an opulent, golden quality. Patchouli and cedar contribute a dry, woody texture, while Tibetan musk and civet offer an animalic sensuality that lingers enticingly. Vanilla rounds out the base with a soft, creamy sweetness that enhances the fragrance’s overall warmth and depth.

Each note of Stradivari is carefully layered to create a multifaceted scent experience, evoking the sophistication and artistry for which it is named. The result is a fragrance that is at once complex and harmonious, embodying a perfect blend of floral elegance, spicy warmth, and woody richness, set against a mossy, earthy backdrop.

Bottles:

Stradivari is presented in exquisitely designed packaging that reflects its sophisticated character. The perfume is housed in the distinctive scepter-shaped flacon, a design that echoes regal elegance and historical grandeur. This choice of bottle not only highlights the perfume’s luxurious nature but also pays homage to the majestic allure of the fragrance itself. 

The clear crystal of the flacon allows the rich, golden liquid to be visible, adding a visual element of opulence and purity. The scepter design, with its sleek lines and graceful curves, evokes a sense of refinement and artistry, perfectly complementing the perfume's complex and rich composition.

The bottle is crowned with a stopper that mirrors the grandeur of the flacon’s shape. The stopper, designed to resemble a royal crown, adds a final touch of regality to the presentation. Its intricate detailing captures light, creating a sparkling effect that enhances the overall allure of the perfume. This crown-shaped stopper not only serves a practical purpose but also acts as a visual symbol of the luxury and prestige associated with Stradivari.

An identifying feature of the packaging is the Clef symbol, which serves as a distinctive mark of the fragrance. This musical motif reinforces the perfume's connection to its namesake, the Prince Matchabelli Orchestra, and adds an additional layer of sophistication. The Clef symbol subtly emphasizes the harmony and elegance that Stradivari represents, linking the world of fine music with the art of perfumery. 

Together, the scepter-shaped flacon, crown stopper, and Clef symbol create a presentation that is both visually striking and deeply symbolic, reflecting the high quality and artistic heritage of Stradivari.

LIFE, 1948:

"STRADIVARI PERFUME — It puts a love song in a woman's heart! Rich, lasting, destined for the woman of deep emotion. $7.50 to $ 15. Miniature crowns, $3."

The New Yorker, 1954:

"Like Matchabelli's Stradivari. A haunting woody note with overtones of the exotic. Both the Perfume and Cologne available at better perfume counters. Stradivari Cologne Parfumee with gift crown of matching Perfume."

Fate of the Fragrance:

Stradivari, a distinguished fragrance by Prince Matchabelli, was eventually discontinued, though the exact date remains uncertain. However, its enduring appeal was evident as it continued to be available for purchase as late as 1976. This longevity reflects the perfume's lasting popularity and the impact it had on its wearers over the years. Even after its official production ceased, Stradivari remained a cherished choice for those who appreciated its unique blend of semi-oriental floral notes, woody depth, and spicy warmth.

The continued availability of Stradivari in 1976 highlights its status as a classic within the Prince Matchabelli collection. The fragrance’s sophisticated blend, housed in its elegantly designed scepter-shaped flacon and crowned with a regal stopper, ensured that it retained a special place in the hearts of its users. Its enduring presence on the market not only underscores its success but also speaks to the quality and timeless appeal that Stradivari offered.

Despite its discontinuation, Stradivari's lasting popularity suggests that it made a significant impression on the fragrance world. Its unique composition, blending floral elegance with woody and spicy undertones, continued to captivate and inspire long after its initial release. The perfume’s ability to remain in demand years after its production ceased serves as a testament to its enduring charm and the high regard in which it was held by those who experienced its luxurious scent.