Narcisse D'Or by Babani c1920

In 1920, the time period of Narcisse D'Or's launch was marked by a post-World War I era characterized by a sense of renewal and extravagance amidst recovery from the war's devastation. This period saw a cultural shift towards luxury and opulence, reflected in fashion, art, and fragrance. The name "Narcisse D'Or" translates from French to "Narcissus of Gold." "Narcisse" refers to the narcissus flower, known for its delicate and intoxicating fragrance, while "D'Or" means "of gold," suggesting something luxurious and precious.

Babani likely chose the name "Narcisse D'Or" to evoke imagery of beauty, elegance, and richness. The narcissus flower, with its sweet floral scent, symbolizes springtime and renewal, aligning with the rejuvenation and optimism of the post-war period. "D'Or" adds a touch of glamour and allure, implying a fragrance that is not only beautiful but also valuable and desirable.

"Narcisse D'Or" would have appealed to individuals who appreciated fine perfumes and sought to indulge in luxury. Those drawn to this perfume would likely respond with admiration and a sense of sophistication. The name itself conjures images of golden fields of narcissus flowers in bloom, shimmering in sunlight, evoking feelings of beauty, warmth, and elegance.

Emotionally, "Narcisse D'Or" suggests a scent that is both floral and luxurious, promising a fragrance experience that is opulent and refined. It appeals to those who seek to adorn themselves with something exquisite and timeless, capturing the essence of floral beauty and the allure of precious metals.

In summary, "Narcisse D'Or" by Babani, launched in 1920, reflects the cultural milieu of its time through its name and promises a fragrance experience that blends floral delicacy with luxurious elegance, appealing to those who appreciate sophistication and beauty.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral fragrance for women.

• Top notes: jonquil, narcissus, cassie, almond
• Middle notes: rose, tuberose, orange blossom, heliotrope
• Base notes: vanilla, styrax, orris, civet

Bottles:

Narcisse d'Or, with its allure and opulence, was presented in four distinct bottles, each encapsulating the essence of luxury. Among them, the most extravagant was a luxurious enameled glass flacon adorned with intricate patterns and crowned by a gilded glass stopper. This bottle epitomized elegance, blending delicate craftsmanship with a touch of gold, symbolizing wealth and refinement. Housed within a presentation case enveloped in rich brocade, the ensemble was not just a vessel for fragrance but a statement of prestige and sophistication. The combination of the ornate bottle and its opulent packaging underscored Narcisse d'Or's status as a perfume designed for those who embraced luxury and sought to adorn themselves with beauty and extravagance.

Other bottles included the following:

• Serie 1309 - the "Chinese," a colorless glass flacon with sloping shoulders and an openworked glass stopper.
• Serie 31 - the "Boule," a frosted glass ball or melon shaped flacon with frosted rose stopper.
• Serie 30 - the "Plat," a flat colorless glass flacon fitted with a flat, frosted glass stopper molded with flowers. 

All three of these bottles were stock bottles used by Babani to contain their other perfumes.

No. 1003. Our twelve extracts in an elegant gold box.

 

 

Fate of the Fragrance:

The exact date of discontinuation for Narcisse d'Or by Babani remains elusive, adding to its mystique as a fragrance of historical significance. It was still being sold in 1927. Despite its departure from the market, its legacy endures through the memories of those who cherished its luxurious aroma and elegant presentation. The reasons behind its discontinuation might stem from evolving tastes in perfumery or shifts in consumer preferences over time. Nevertheless, for enthusiasts and collectors alike, Narcisse d'Or represents a relic of an era when perfumes were crafted with meticulous care and adorned with exquisite packaging, embodying a bygone era of glamour and sophistication.