In 1920, the launch of the perfume "Yasmak" by Babani coincided with a period marked by Western fascination with the Middle East, including Turkey, Syria, and their cultural practices like harems. This era was characterized by Orientalist fantasies and a growing interest in exoticism, influenced by literature, art, and travel depicting distant lands.
The French name "Yasmak," derived from the Turkish word "yaşmak," translates to "veil" or "face veil" in English. Choosing this name for a perfume evokes a sense of mystery, allure, and cultural fascination, particularly regarding the veiled women of harems, whose lives were often romanticized in Western imagination.
The subtitle "Parfum Syrien" further emphasizes its exotic appeal, associating it with the luxurious scents and traditions of Syria, which were marketed as alluring and mysterious in Western markets.
The phrase "suggested to be worn by 'the exotic blonde'" suggests that the perfume was designed to enhance a woman's allure with a fragrance inspired by the romanticized image of women in harems, regardless of her natural hair color. This marketing strategy aimed to appeal to Western women who sought to embody the allure of a veiled beauty from the East.
The name "Yasmak" would resonate with those fascinated by Orientalist fantasies and the allure of distant cultures, evoking images of richly adorned women in intricate veils within the opulent settings of harems. Emotionally, "Yasmak" would evoke feelings of mystery, sensuality, and exoticism, tapping into the era's fascination with escapism and the unknown.
Overall, "Yasmak" by Babani encapsulates the spirit of the 1920s, where Western perceptions of the Middle East, including harems, were romanticized and marketed through fragrance, offering wearers a sensory journey into a world of veiled allure and cultural mystique.
Renaissance , Volume 6, 1923:
"Yasmak is of a freshness without equal, it is a true secret of the Harems."... Maurice BABANI, 98 bis, BOULEVARD HAUSSMANN, PARIS."
Fragrance Composition:
So what does it smell like? It is described as "exotic, brilliant" and a Syrian perfume, so I am assuming that it is an oriental fragrance for women. But I would need a sample to tell you what it really smells like.
- Top notes;
- Middle notes:
- Base notes:
"Yasmak, Parfum Syrien" by Babani beckons with an exotic allure that is both brilliant and subtly disturbing, designed for those introspective moments of unrest and questioning when the true essence of oneself is stirred. This fragrance promises an irresistibly fascinating journey into the mysteries of the harems, where gracious charm and distinction intertwine to create an aura of enigmatic allure. It stands as a coveted secret, resonating with the spirit of Paris's infatuation with the petite blonde—a perfume tailor-made for your most important afternoon frock, ensuring you radiate elegance and allure effortlessly.
For the worldly, sophisticated, and smart individuals who cherish adventure and seek attention, Babani offers a tantalizing suggestion: blend "Yasmak" with "Afghani" in a 2-to-1 ratio to craft a new, deeply personal fragrance. This blend amplifies the complexities of both scents, creating a symphony of fragrance that captures attention and admiration wherever you go. For those with a medium complexion, combining "Yasmak" with "Afghani" enriches the depth and resonance of the fragrance, adapting seamlessly to different moods and occasions.
In quieter moments, when a softer touch is desired, "Yasmak" harmonizes beautifully with "Sousouki," offering a delicate yet captivating fragrance that complements moments of reflection and subtlety. This versatility reflects the European tradition of blending perfumes to suit one's mood and attire—a practice that allows individuals to create a signature scent as unique and multifaceted as they are.
Babani's perfumes are crafted to harmonize effortlessly together, allowing wearers to experiment and create bespoke fragrances that emphasize their fascinating complexity. Whether blending for adventure and attention or for softer, introspective moments, Babani invites you to explore and define your olfactory identity in ways that are as intriguing and varied as your charming moods.
Bottles:
The bottle of "Yasmak" is a masterpiece of glass craftsmanship, featuring a unique design that combines elegance with Eastern allure. It begins with a graceful outward flare that tapers inward near the base, culminating in a conical amphora shape that exudes sophistication. Adorning its clear glass surface are hand-painted panels depicting Oriental flowers, meticulously executed in shades of gold and black enamel. These intricate floral motifs are accentuated by delicate blue enamel lines and complemented by interlacing scrolls that add a sense of opulence and intricacy to the design.
Topping the bottle is a broad stopper, its olive-shaped cap painted in black, further embellishing the regal appearance crafted by Auziès. This detailed presentation is housed in a satin-lined case of jade color, enhancing the aura of luxury and exclusivity surrounding "Yasmak." Standing at 11.5 cm tall and 9 cm wide, this rare and meticulously crafted bottle not only preserves the fragrance within but also serves as a testament to the artistry and elegance of its time.
Photo by Drouot.
No. 1003. Our twelve extracts in an elegant gold box.
Fate of the Fragrance:
"Yasmak," a perfume of exquisite craftsmanship and Eastern allure, has unfortunately been discontinued, with the exact date of its discontinuation remaining unknown. This rarity adds to its mystique and allure, making it a sought-after collector's item among enthusiasts of vintage perfumery. The bottle, with its intricate hand-painted panels of Oriental flowers in shades of gold and black enamel, flanked by blue enamel lines and a broad stopper, remains a testament to its era's artistic and olfactory sophistication. Despite its discontinuation, "Yasmak" continues to evoke nostalgia for a time when perfumes were crafted as much for their visual appeal as for their captivating scents, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to experience its unique charm. Still being sold in 1931.
No comments:
Post a Comment