Farnesiana by Caron, launched in 1947, carries with it a name rich in botanical and historical significance. The word “Farnesiana” is derived from Acacia Farnesiana, the Latin name for cassie, a flower known for its sweet, intoxicating scent. The name also pays homage to the Farnese Gardens, located within the Roman Farnese Palace, which served as the inspiration for the fragrance. Pronounced as "far-neh-see-ah-nah", Farnesiana evokes images of lush, sun-drenched gardens, with their vibrant floral displays, delicate greenery, and an air of quiet opulence. It conjures emotions of luxury and timeless beauty, offering a sense of escape to an idyllic, classical landscape, where nature and elegance intertwine.
The perfume was introduced in a period marked by the end of World War II and the dawn of a new era, full of hope and rebuilding. The late 1940s were a time of transition, as Europe emerged from the devastation of the war and entered the post-war era. Fashion had shifted from the austerity of wartime to the glamour and femininity of haute couture, with Christian Dior’s "New Look" leading the charge. In this context, a perfume like Farnesiana would have been a luxurious escape, a celebration of rebirth and femininity, offering women a chance to indulge in an olfactory experience that reflected the lavish beauty of the world they were now entering. Women of the time, particularly those who were embracing the world of fashion and sophistication, would have connected with Farnesiana as a fragrance that represented elegance, rejuvenation, and a return to the finer things in life.
The creation of Farnesiana was a long and thoughtful process, with its origins tracing back to 1941 when Michel Morsetti began recreating the perfume from notes left by Ernest Daltroff, the founder of Parfums Caron. It wasn’t until 1947 that the fragrance was finally completed and released to the public. Classified as a floral fragrance, Farnesiana is a harmonious blend of sweet floral notes with a rich, honeyed undertone. The fragrance opens with the fresh, fruity sweetness of blackcurrant, followed by the golden warmth of mimosa and almond, evoking the delicate nature of cassie flowers. As it settles, Farnesiana reveals a creamy base of vanilla and sandalwood, which adds depth and sensuality to the composition.
