Elegancia by Caron c1911

The perfume Elegancia by Caron, created by Ernest Daltroff and launched in 1911, emerged during the final years of the Belle Époque, a period characterized by its remarkable elegance, artistic flourishing, and social progress in Europe, particularly in France. The Belle Époque, which spanned from the late 19th century until the outbreak of World War I in 1914, was a time of cultural renaissance. Paris, the heart of this era, was an epicenter of art, fashion, and luxury. The city radiated a sense of optimism and sophistication, with its grand boulevards, opulent theaters, and bustling cafes. This period saw the rise of haute couture, pioneered by designers like Charles Worth and Paul Poiret, who emphasized opulence and exquisite craftsmanship in their creations. Against this backdrop of artistic and social exuberance, Elegancia by Caron was born, encapsulating the essence of the age in a fragrant tribute to style and grace.

The name "Elegancia" translates to "Elegance" in English, a term synonymous with refinement, grace, and sophisticated beauty. Parfums Caron’s choice of the name "Elegancia" was a deliberate nod to the sophisticated and polished nature of the Belle Époque. By naming the perfume "Elegancia," Caron aimed to evoke the refined and stylish essence that was so highly prized during this time. The name itself would have resonated deeply with those who valued the cultured and artistic ethos of the era, reflecting a sense of timeless beauty and understated luxury.

"Elegancia" is an ideal name for a perfume as it immediately conveys a sense of refined sophistication and timeless charm. Perfume is often seen as an invisible accessory that enhances one's presence and allure. The name "Elegancia" suggests that the wearer of this fragrance would embody grace and refinement, appealing to those who appreciate the finer things in life. It speaks to an aspirational quality, promising the wearer a touch of the elegance that was so central to the Belle Époque. In a market where the name of a perfume can evoke a wealth of imagery and emotions, "Elegancia" stands out as a beacon of high style and poise.

Those who would have related to a perfume called "Elegancia" in 1911 were likely individuals who appreciated the arts, fashion, and the cultured lifestyle of the Belle Époque. This would include the fashionable elite, artists, and socialites who frequented the grand salons and cafes of Paris. The name would resonate with them as it encapsulates the elegance and sophistication they sought to embody in their own lives. Upon encountering this perfume, they would likely respond with admiration and a sense of connection to the cultural zeitgeist of the time. They would appreciate the perfume as a statement of their refined taste and a reflection of their social status. 

 The word "Elegancia" evokes images of refined beauty, luxurious gowns, and the artistic vibrancy of early 20th-century Paris. It brings to mind the elegance of a ballet at the Palais Garnier, the sophisticated chatter of a Parisian café, and the exquisite craftsmanship of couture fashion houses. Emotionally, "Elegancia" conjures feelings of nostalgia for a time of cultural exuberance, a sense of pride in one's appearance, and an aspiration to embody grace and sophistication. It suggests a lifestyle marked by attention to detail, an appreciation for art and beauty, and a commitment to living with poise and elegance.

In sum, Elegancia by Caron, launched in 1911, was more than just a perfume; it was a fragrant embodiment of the elegance and sophistication that defined the Belle Époque. The name "Elegancia" perfectly captured the essence of this glamorous era, appealing to those who sought to express their refined tastes and cultural appreciation through the art of perfumery.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? I have no published notes on this fragrance. Imagining the scent of Elegancia by Caron, created in 1911, allows us to delve into the olfactory trends of the Belle Époque. During this time, perfumes with names like "Elegance" or "Elegant" often shared certain key ingredients that embodied the sophistication and refinement of the era. Elegancia likely opened with fresh and vibrant top notes of bergamot and neroli, offering a bright and uplifting introduction. The heart of the fragrance may have featured a bouquet of delicate and romantic florals such as rose, jasmine, and ylang-ylang, blending seamlessly to evoke a sense of timeless beauty and elegance. These floral notes would have been enriched by the inclusion of violet, adding a soft and powdery nuance that was highly fashionable at the time. The base notes probably included warm and comforting accords of sandalwood, amber, and musk, providing a sensual and lasting finish that lingered gracefully on the skin. This potential fragrance profile paints a picture of Elegancia as a perfume that captured the essence of its time—an exquisite blend of freshness, floral beauty, and warm sophistication, perfectly suited to the elegant and cultured individuals of the Belle Époque.

• Top notes: bergamot, neroli, violet
• Middle notes: rose, jasmine, orris, ylang ylang
• Base notes: sandalwood, ambergris, tolu balsam, vanilla, musk

Chemist and Druggist, 1915:

"PARFUMERIE CARON - Arthur H. Cox & Co Ltd., Brighton, have been appointed sole British agents for the firm of Parfumerie Caron, 10 Rue de la Paix, Paris, and carry stock of their exquisite products, which include perfumes and face powders with the distinctive names: Chantecler, Elegancia, Infini, Isadora, Mimosa, Mode 1915-1916, Modernis, Narcisse Caron, Narcisse Noir, Petit Mimosa, Rarissime, Rose Précieuse, and Violette Précieuse. These appeal to the refined and the rich, and although the prices are high, there is value for the money in quality and style. For example, Petit Mimosa is a fine, enduring, and subtle perfume, put up in a quaint shaped stoppered bottle, the stopper of which is secured with gilt wire, and the label is an embossed gilt metal disc cemented to the front. It is enclosed in a lemon coloured case, and retails at 10s 9d off which the retailer gets a liberal discount. Messrs Cox have an illustrated circular about the products, a copy of which will be sent to any of our readers who asks them for it. It is a model circular." 

Bottle:

Elegancia by Caron, launched in 1911, was not only a masterpiece in fragrance but also in presentation, epitomizing the opulence and artistry of the Belle Époque. The perfume was originally presented in a stunning opalescent glass bottle, designed by the renowned Felicie Vanpouille in collaboration with Julien Viard, and manufactured by Touvier et Cie, the glassworks of Pantin, and later by Verrières de Romesnil. The bluish opalescent cylindrical bottle, press molded to resemble a vase with a chimney-styled neck, is a testament to the intricate craftsmanship of the time. The belly of the bottle is adorned with a molded decoration of two godron sets of stalactites, adding a touch of ornate elegance. The names "Elegancia" and "Caron" are intaglio molded into the belly, subtly indicating its prestigious origins.

The opalescent glass stopper, shaped like a button and molded with delicate flowers, completes the bottle’s elegant design. This beautiful and rare decanter shaped bottle was housed inside a cubic-shaped presentation box, covered with burgundy paper that simulated Moroccan leather, enhancing its luxurious appeal. The interior of the box was lined with ivory-colored satin, providing a soft and elegant contrast to the opalescent glass. Standing at about 3.9 inches tall, the bottle’s compact size belied the grandeur of its design and the exquisite care taken in its creation.

The bottle for Elegancia is among the rarest of all early Caron bottles to find today. Its scarcity has made it a highly sought-after collector's item, often reaching astronomical prices when put up for sale. Collectors and perfume enthusiasts cherish these bottles not only for their historical and aesthetic value but also for the glimpse they offer into the lavish elegance of the Belle Époque. The exquisite craftsmanship and the artistic collaboration behind the bottle’s design make it a true treasure, reflecting the sophisticated spirit of its time and the timeless allure of Caron perfumes.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Elegancia by Caron, a fragrance that epitomized the elegance of the Belle Époque, was discontinued at an unknown date. Despite its eventual discontinuation, Elegancia continued to be sold as late as 1929, demonstrating its lasting appeal and the enduring legacy of Caron’s early fragrances. During this period, Elegancia was part of a prestigious lineup of Caron perfumes, which included notable creations such as Affolant, Bel Amour, Isadora, Mes Jeunes Années, Petit Mimosa, Mode, Nuit de Noël, Parfum Radiant, Rose Précieuse, Violette Précieuse, Le Tabac Blond, N'Aimez Que Moi, Narcisse Blanc, Narcisse Noir, Chantecler, L'Infini, and Eau de Caron. This collection of scents highlights the diverse and innovative spirit of Caron’s perfumery, with each fragrance offering a unique sensory experience that captivated the sophisticated tastes of the era. The continued sale of Elegancia among such esteemed company underscores its significance and the high regard in which it was held by perfume enthusiasts of the time. Even today, the legacy of Elegancia endures, cherished by collectors and connoisseurs for its historical value and the exquisite craftsmanship that defined Caron’s creations.