Alpona c1939

Alpona was launched in 1939, against the backdrop of impending global conflict and the world's fascination with innovation and cultural exchange, exemplified by events like the 1939 World's Fair. This period also saw a strong appreciation for nature and escapism, with the French Alps symbolizing an idyllic, untouched beauty. In perfumery, this era celebrated natural ingredients and intricate compositions that could transport wearers to serene and exotic locales.

The French Alps are rich in botanicals used in perfumery. Lavender, for its calming and aromatic qualities; edelweiss, known for its soft, powdery floral notes; and various alpine herbs like thyme and rosemary, which provide fresh, green, and slightly spicy nuances. These ingredients encapsulate the purity and vitality of the alpine environment, creating fragrances that are fresh, invigorating, and deeply connected to nature.

The name "Alpona" ingeniously combines "Alp," referring to the French Alps, with the suffix "-ona," which adds a sense of femininity and elegance. The suffix "-ona" is often found in names and words that convey a grand or noble quality, adding an aura of sophistication and allure. By choosing this name, Parfums Caron and Ernest Daltroff aimed to evoke the majesty and beauty of the Alps while also suggesting a refined and elegant perfume experience.

"Alpona" as a name would appeal to those who appreciate both the natural beauty of the Alps and the sophisticated artistry of fine perfumery. It suggests a perfume that is refreshing, serene, and elegant, capturing the essence of alpine landscapes. The name resonates with individuals seeking an escape to nature and those who value the intricacy and craftsmanship in their fragrances. Showcased at the 1939 World's Fair, Alpona would have been seen as an international and sophisticated choice, drawing a cosmopolitan and discerning audience.

The word "Alpona" conjures images of snow-capped mountains, lush meadows, and clear, invigorating air. It evokes feelings of tranquility, purity, and a deep connection to nature. The name suggests a fragrance that offers a sensory journey to the serene and majestic environment of the French Alps, promising an experience that is both invigorating and calming. The detailed and natural beauty associated with alpine landscapes can be seen as a metaphor for the complex layers and notes in the perfume itself, offering a harmonious and enriching olfactory experience.

In 1939, the name "Alpona" would have stood out for its unique blend of natural and sophisticated connotations. It was not out of touch for the time but rather innovative, reflecting a trend towards appreciating global cultures and natural beauty. The name's connection to the French Alps offered a sense of escapism and peace, highly appealing in a time of global unrest. Its exotic yet familiar allure made it a perfect fit for the era, resonating with those who sought elegance and tranquility.

Those who related to the name "Alpona" would likely respond with admiration and a personal connection to the natural world. The perfume would be seen as a tribute to the majestic beauty of the Alps, evoking pride in nature and an appreciation for detailed craftsmanship. Wearing Alpona would be an expression of elegance, sophistication, and a love for natural beauty, making it a cherished addition to one's fragrance collection. The unique name, combined with its rich backstory and high-quality ingredients, would make Alpona a memorable and treasured perfume.

Ernest Daltroff, the genius behind Alpona, was renowned for his innovative and artistic approach to perfumery. Presenting Alpona at the 1939 World's Fair was a strategic move to introduce the perfume to a global audience, showcasing the artistry of Caron and the timeless appeal of the French Alps. The World's Fair, a hub of cultural exchange and technological marvels, was the perfect platform to highlight a fragrance that embodied both natural elegance and modern sophistication. Alpona, with its unique name and exquisite composition, stood as a testament to Daltroff's vision and the enduring beauty of the French Alps.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does the original smell like? It is classified as an aldehydic woody floral fougere fragrance for women.

• Top notes: aldehydes, bergamot, lemon, orange and grapefruit
• Middle notes: orchid, jasmine, orange blossom, rose, thyme, fruits, sweet raisins
• Base notes: cedar, patchouli, sandalwood, incense, oakmoss, vetiver, myrrh, musk

Scent Story:

The year is 1939, and you find yourself in the heart of the French Alps, a place of stunning natural beauty and tranquility. The crisp mountain air invigorates your senses as you embark on a sensory journey that mirrors the essence of Alpona by Caron, an aldehydic woody floral fougère fragrance for women.

As you step into the alpine meadow at dawn, the first light of the sun illuminates the landscape, casting a golden glow over the vibrant wildflowers and snow-capped peaks. The air is fresh and filled with the sparkling scent of aldehydes, creating an almost ethereal brightness. You breathe in deeply, and the sharp, citrusy notes of bergamot, lemon, orange, and grapefruit cut through the crisp morning air. The zesty fragrance invigorates your senses, awakening you to the beauty around you.

Continuing your journey, you come across a secluded alpine garden where a symphony of floral fragrances greets you. The delicate scent of orchids mingles with the intoxicating aroma of jasmine, filling the air with a sweet, exotic perfume. Orange blossom adds a fresh, slightly tangy note, while the classic elegance of rose imparts a timeless beauty. The breeze carries the herbal, slightly minty scent of thyme, blending seamlessly with the sweet, sun-ripened fruits and the rich, sugary aroma of raisins. This harmonious bouquet of middle notes envelops you in a comforting and uplifting embrace.

As the day progresses and you hike further into the forested slopes, the atmosphere becomes richer and more complex. The earthy scent of cedarwood pervades the cool, shaded woods, grounding you with its sturdy and reassuring presence. The warm, resinous fragrance of patchouli and sandalwood wraps around you, bringing a sense of peace and well-being. The subtle, smoky undertones of incense linger in the air, adding a spiritual, meditative quality to the scene. You brush past moss-covered rocks, inhaling the green, slightly damp scent of oakmoss, mingled with the grassy, earthy aroma of vetiver. The deep, balsamic notes of myrrh and the animalic, sensual hint of musk create a lingering, almost mystical ambiance as the sun sets behind the peaks.

Throughout your journey, the French Alps offer a feast for all the senses. You see the breathtaking vistas of towering mountains and verdant valleys, touch the soft petals of alpine flowers and the rough bark of ancient trees, smell the fresh, pure mountain air infused with an ever-changing array of natural fragrances, taste the simple, hearty flavors of local cheeses and fresh mountain berries, and hear the gentle rustling of leaves, the distant murmur of streams, and the melodic calls of alpine birds.

Each ingredient of Alpona is experienced firsthand in this idyllic alpine setting, painting a vivid picture of a fragrance that captures the essence of nature's beauty and complexity. This sensory journey through the French Alps in 1939 allows you to fully appreciate the artistry and inspiration behind Alpona by Caron, a fragrance that embodies the spirit of a timeless and enchanting place.

A Unique Launch:

Drug & Cosmetic Industry - Volume 45, 1939:

"Perfumes of Tomorrow. It is an unusual move for a major line to introduce three new perfumes at the same time, but Caron felt that a big effort had to be made if the perfume business was to be taken out of novelty packaging and brought back to its proper level of artistry, beauty and luxury where it belongs. Caron's presentation of the three perfumes is different and more luxurious than anything made so ar by the company. They are different from one another as each one is of a different inspiration and idea. The one illustrated is "Ad Astra" in a lovely bronze bottle, "Alpona" in a fan-like bottle and "Voeu de Noel" in a beautiful frosted bottle with embossed flowers. Caron is the only perfumer who took advantage of the World's Fair theme "World of Tomorrow " and will present perfumes in the French Pavilion at the New York World' Fair."

In the 1939 volume of Drug & Cosmetic Industry, the article "Perfumes of Tomorrow" highlights a significant and ambitious move by Parfums Caron, introducing three new perfumes simultaneously. This was an unusual strategy for a major perfume line, but Caron felt compelled to make a bold effort to elevate the perfume industry. The aim was to transition away from the trend of novelty packaging and restore the perfume business to its rightful status of artistry, beauty, and luxury. Caron's approach was to present these new perfumes in a manner that was more luxurious and refined than anything they had previously produced.

Each of the three perfumes introduced by Caron was unique, inspired by different themes and ideas, ensuring a diverse and rich offering. "Ad Astra," showcased in a lovely bronze bottle, symbolized aspirations and reaching for the stars, resonating with the era's fascination with the future and progress. "Alpona," housed in a distinctive fan-like bottle, honored the majesty and natural beauty of the French Alps, encapsulating the serene and pure essence of this iconic landscape. Lastly, "Voeu de Noel" came in a beautiful frosted bottle adorned with embossed flowers, embodying the spirit and warmth of holiday wishes.

Caron's innovative presentation of these perfumes was aligned with the theme of the 1939 New York World's Fair, "World of Tomorrow." Caron was the only perfumer to fully embrace this theme, using it as an opportunity to showcase their luxurious creations in the French Pavilion. This strategic move not only highlighted Caron's commitment to luxury and artistry but also positioned them as a forward-thinking and innovative brand in the global market.

Among the trio, "Alpona" stood out with its unique fan-like bottle design, symbolizing a fresh and elegant approach. Named to honor the French Alps, "Alpona" captured the essence of this pristine and majestic region. The bottle design itself was a work of art, reflecting the intricate and natural beauty that inspired the perfume. The choice of ingredients likely included alpine botanicals such as lavender, edelweiss, and various alpine herbs, which added a fresh, invigorating, and pure quality to the fragrance.

Caron's decision to introduce these perfumes together was a deliberate effort to restore the industry's focus on true artistry and luxury. By moving away from novelty packaging and instead emphasizing the unique inspirations and luxurious presentations of each fragrance, Caron sought to elevate the standards of perfumery. This approach resonated with the discerning customers of the time, who appreciated both the aesthetic and olfactory experiences offered by high-quality perfumes.

The 1939 New York World's Fair, with its "World of Tomorrow" theme, provided the perfect backdrop for Caron's new perfumes. By presenting their fragrances in the French Pavilion, Caron positioned themselves as a leader in the industry, embracing the spirit of innovation and progress. This move not only highlighted their commitment to luxury and artistry but also aligned them with the forward-thinking and optimistic outlook of the World's Fair.

Caron's introduction of "Ad Astra," "Alpona," and "Voeu de Noel" in 1939 was a bold and strategic move that aimed to elevate the perfume industry back to its rightful place of luxury and artistry. By embracing the theme of the World's Fair and presenting their perfumes in uniquely luxurious ways, Caron demonstrated their commitment to quality and innovation. The distinct inspirations behind each perfume, along with their exquisite presentations, made them stand out as symbols of elegance, sophistication, and forward-thinking in the world of perfumery.

Bottles:

Alpona, one of Parfums Caron's luxurious creations, was presented in a fan-shaped white opaline glass bottle that immediately captured the eye with its elegance and artistry. This distinctive bottle was not just a container for the fragrance but a piece of art in its own right. The fan shape was both unique and symbolic, evoking the delicate and intricate beauty often associated with high-quality perfumes. The opaline glass, with its milky translucence, added a touch of sophistication and purity, suggesting the pristine and serene qualities of the French Alps that the perfume aimed to honor.

The bottle for Alpona was a collaborative masterpiece designed by Félicie Bergaud and Paul Ternat. Félicie Bergaud, known for her creative and innovative approach to perfume bottle design, brought a sense of elegance and grace to the project. Paul Ternat, with his expertise in craftsmanship and design, complemented Bergaud’s vision, ensuring that the bottle was not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Their collaboration resulted in a design that was both visually stunning and perfectly suited to encapsulate the luxurious essence of Alpona.

The manufacturing of the Alpona bottle was entrusted to Cristalleries de Romesnil, a renowned glassmaking company known for its high standards and exquisite craftsmanship. The choice of Cristalleries de Romesnil ensured that the bottle was made with the finest materials and the highest level of precision. The white opaline glass used in the bottle was of exceptional quality, providing a smooth and flawless finish that enhanced the overall aesthetic appeal.

Adding to the bottle’s allure was the rich gilding that adorned its surface. The use of gold decoration was not merely an embellishment but a reflection of the luxury and opulence that Caron aimed to convey with Alpona. The gilding highlighted the bottle’s elegant curves and contours, creating a striking contrast against the soft white opaline glass. This decorative touch emphasized the attention to detail and the commitment to creating a truly luxurious product.

 

The design elements of Alpona’s bottle were carefully chosen to resonate with the perfume’s inspiration and theme. The fan shape symbolized grace and refinement, while the white opaline glass represented purity and tranquility. The rich gilding added a touch of opulence, making the bottle a perfect representation of the luxurious and sophisticated fragrance it contained. This thoughtful and intricate design appealed to those who appreciated not only the scent but also the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating such a beautiful presentation.

The presentation of Alpona in a fan-shaped white opaline glass bottle, decorated with rich gilding, was a testament to Parfums Caron’s dedication to luxury and artistry. Designed by Félicie Bergaud and Paul Ternat, and manufactured by Cristalleries de Romesnil, the bottle was a perfect embodiment of elegance, sophistication, and the serene beauty of the French Alps. This exquisite presentation made Alpona not just a perfume, but a collector’s item and a symbol of refined taste and high-quality craftsmanship.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Alpona, a luxurious perfume by Parfums Caron, enjoyed its place in the fragrance world for an indeterminate period before being discontinued. The exact date of its discontinuation remains unknown, shrouded in the mists of time and changing trends in perfumery. However, records indicate that Alpona was still being sold as late as 1941, suggesting that it had a notable presence in the market for at least a couple of years following its launch in 1939.

Despite the eventual discontinuation, Alpona left a lasting impression on the world of perfumery. Its unique presentation and the exquisite craftsmanship of its bottle, designed by Félicie Bergaud and Paul Ternat, ensured that it remained a memorable and cherished product. The fan-shaped white opaline glass bottle with rich gilding was a testament to Caron's commitment to luxury and elegance, capturing the essence of the French Alps and appealing to the sophisticated tastes of its clientele.

The fact that Alpona was still available for purchase in 1941 indicates that it maintained a degree of popularity and demand. This period was marked by significant global upheaval due to World War II, which had profound impacts on the economy and consumer goods industries, including perfumery. The continued availability of Alpona during these challenging times speaks to its appeal and the loyalty of its customers, who appreciated its refined scent and beautiful presentation.

The discontinuation of Alpona, like many perfumes of its time, was likely influenced by a combination of factors. The war caused disruptions in the supply of raw materials and manufacturing capabilities, which would have affected the production of luxury items such as perfumes. Additionally, shifting consumer preferences and the introduction of new fragrances and trends in the post-war era may have contributed to the decision to discontinue Alpona.

Today, Alpona is remembered as a collector's item, prized for its historical significance and the artistry of its design. Vintage bottles of Alpona, if found, are considered rare and valuable, cherished by collectors and perfume enthusiasts alike. The story of Alpona serves as a reminder of a bygone era in perfumery, characterized by elegance, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the art of fragrance creation.

Although the exact date of Alpona's discontinuation remains unknown, its presence in the market until at least 1941 underscores its initial success and the lasting impact it had on the world of luxury perfumes. The discontinuation marked the end of a chapter for this exquisite fragrance, but its legacy continues to be celebrated by those who value the beauty and craftsmanship of vintage perfumes. Alpona remains a symbol of Parfums Caron's dedication to creating timeless, elegant fragrances that resonate with the sophisticated tastes of their clientele.

Reformulation & Relaunch:

Alpona experienced a resurgence when it was relaunched and reformulated, though this new iteration excluded the original oakmoss component, likely due to regulatory changes and evolving safety standards in the perfume industry. This reformulated version aimed to retain the essence of Alpona's luxurious and elegant profile while complying with modern regulations. Despite this effort to modernize and reintroduce the classic fragrance, Alpona faced discontinuation once more, ultimately ceasing production by 2009. This second discontinuation marked the end of Alpona's journey in the perfume market, leaving behind a legacy of sophistication and artistic craftsmanship cherished by vintage fragrance enthusiasts.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is an oriental chypre fragrance for women with dominant notes of bittersweet grapefruit, aromatic oakmoss and sharp lemon.

• Top notes: bergamot, lemon, orange and grapefruit
• Middle notes: orchid, jasmine, orange blossom, rose, thyme, fruits, sweet raisins
• Base notes: cedar, patchouli, sandalwood, incense, oakmoss, vetiver, myrrh, musk

Baccarat perfume urn at the Caron boutiques.