In 1920, when Babani launched the perfume "Ligeia" subtitled "Parfum de Manille," the Philippines were experiencing a unique cultural and political landscape. The country had recently emerged from Spanish and then American colonial rule, gaining independence in 1946. Manila, the capital, was a vibrant hub of trade and cultural exchange, influenced by both Western and Asian traditions. The early 20th century saw a burgeoning interest in perfumes and luxury goods among the elite, reflecting a desire for sophistication and refinement amidst political and social changes.
The name "Ligeia" originates from Greek mythology, where Ligeia was one of the Sirens, known for her hypnotic singing and beauty. In English, "Ligeia" means "clear-voiced" or "shrill." The choice of this name by Babani likely aimed to evoke allure, mystery, and a sense of timeless beauty associated with ancient mythology. In the context of perfumery, "Ligeia" suggests a fragrance that is enchanting, captivating, and perhaps even seductive.
For consumers in 1920, especially in Manila, a perfume named "Ligeia" would have appealed to those seeking sophistication and a connection to classical beauty and mythology. The name itself could evoke images of mythical sirens, exotic allure, and a sense of elegance that resonated with the cosmopolitan elite of Manila. The fragrance would likely be perceived as luxurious, invoking emotions of fascination, intrigue, and a longing for the exotic.
The word "Ligeia" carries connotations of enchantment, allure, and the power of beauty, which would have resonated strongly with consumers looking for a perfume that not only smelled exquisite but also conveyed a sense of mythological charm and timeless elegance.
"Ligéia, who comes from Manila in her lacquered bottle, powdered with gold, is as mysterious as the one whose memory it evokes."
"Ligeia, Parfum de Manille," breathes the essence of legendary isles, its bouquet dripping with the orchid sweetness of tropical places. Romantic and luxurious, this perfume is a masterpiece blended from the exotic flowers native to Manila. Its elusive and mysterious fragrance evokes memories of blissful days gone by, capturing the essence of the eternal siren, Ligeia.
Ligeia envelops the senses with its languorous warmth, reminiscent of a soft velvet night. It's the perfect accompaniment to luxurious negligees and gentle afternoon tea gowns, enhancing the wearer's allure and sophistication.
Babani's suggestion to blend Ligeia with Ambre de Delhi or Ming reveals its versatility and the artistry of perfume mixing. Combining two parts Ligeia with one part Afghani creates a special fragrance that marries warmth with depth, embodying a unique personal charm. When paired with Oeillet du Japon, Ligeia transforms into a perfume that blends romantic luxury with the refined elegance of Japanese culture, offering a sophisticated olfactory experience.
For those seeking a modern twist, blending Ligeia with Ambre de Delhi echoes the style of renowned perfumer Elizabeth Arden, creating a personalized fragrance that exudes confidence and allure. Meanwhile, mixing Ligeia with Ming yields a refreshing and intriguing scent, perfect for those who appreciate a vibrant, multifaceted aroma.
In essence, Ligeia by Babani is not just a perfume but a canvas for personal expression, offering endless possibilities for creating bespoke fragrances that reflect individuality and style.
c1926
Fragrance Composition:
So what does it smell like? It is a "languourous, warm and soft" sweet floral fragrance for women with a dominant orchid note.
- Top notes: hyacinth, lemon, neroli, bergamot, violet
- Middle notes: orris, orchid, lilac, gardenia, ylang ylang, rose, tuberose, jasmine
- Base notes: ambergris, sandalwood, vanilla, clove, tonka bean, musk, benzoin
Scent Story:
In the heart of Manila, amidst the bustling streets and colonial architecture, lies a hidden oasis—a secret garden where the air is heavy with the fragrance of exotic blooms. As you step through wrought iron gates, a symphony of colors and scents unfolds before you. Lush greenery cascades over stone pathways, leading you deeper into this fragrant sanctuary.
The first sensation that greets you is the crisp tang of lemon and bergamot, their zest mingling with the sweet freshness of neroli and the delicate floral notes of hyacinth and violet. These top notes dance lightly on the breeze, teasing your senses as you wander deeper into the garden.
Around a corner, a patch of orchids catches your eye—vivid hues of purple, white, and pink speckling the greenery. The dominant orchid note of Ligeia by Babani unfolds here, weaving its hypnotic spell. The air is filled with the heady scent of orchids, their intoxicating aroma mingling with the powdery elegance of orris and the creamy richness of ylang ylang.
As you continue your journey, you come upon a secluded corner where gardenias and tuberoses bloom in abundance. Their fragrance is intoxicating, blending seamlessly with the romantic allure of jasmine and the timeless elegance of rose. Each flower seems to whisper a story of its own, a tale of beauty and grace that captivates your imagination.
Underfoot, the earth is soft and yielding, carpeted with moss and fallen petals. You reach out to touch the velvety petals of a gardenia, feeling their silky texture against your fingertips. Nearby, the woody warmth of sandalwood and the sweet embrace of vanilla linger in the air, anchored by the subtle spiciness of clove and the comforting depth of benzoin and tonka bean.
As you take a seat on a weathered stone bench, you close your eyes and breathe in deeply, letting the fragrance of Ligeia envelop you like a warm embrace. It's a perfume that evokes languor and softness, a symphony of floral notes that transport you to a place of timeless beauty and serenity—the essence of a garden in full bloom, captured in a bottle.
Bottle:
Ligeia by Babani emerges not only as a fragrance but as an opulent piece of artistry, encapsulated in its exquisite packaging. Housed in its original flacon, lacquered in deep black and adorned with delicate powdered gold detailing, each bottle is a testament to luxury and sophistication. The flacon itself is a marvel, its sleek silhouette complemented by jade glass stoppers that gleam with a subtle elegance.
Nestled within a presentation box of rich gold hue, lined with plush green satin, Ligeia arrives as a treasure to behold. The contrast of gold and green evokes a sense of regal allure, hinting at the precious contents within. It's a packaging fit for royalty, designed to enhance the allure and mystique of the fragrance it holds.
Beyond its original flacon, Ligeia offers a variety of options to suit every preference and occasion. Available in five different sizes, each iteration ensures that every woman can indulge in the allure of Ligeia, whether for everyday wear or as a cherished gift. From the smallest, delicate enough to slip into an evening clutch, to the largest, a statement piece on any vanity, these bottles cater to the diverse needs of discerning perfume enthusiasts.
In the world of Ligeia, every detail speaks of elegance and refinement, from its meticulously crafted flacon to its sumptuous presentation. It's not just a fragrance; it's an experience—a symphony of scent and sight, designed to captivate and enchant.
No. 1003. Our twelve extracts in an elegant gold box.
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