Violet by Tuvache c1939

In 1939, the launch of "Violet" by Tuvaché occurred during a period marked by the approaching turmoil of World War II. This era was characterized by a blend of optimism and apprehension, where perfumes often provided a nostalgic escape into realms of beauty and tranquility. The choice of violet as a fragrance theme during this time was significant. Violets have long been associated with delicate beauty, modesty, and simplicity. They evoke a sense of refinement and innocence, often symbolizing loyalty and faithfulness.

Bernadine de Tuvache likely chose the name "Violet" for its classic appeal and the universal charm associated with the flower itself. Violets have a rich history in perfumery, dating back centuries, where their sweet, powdery scent has been cherished for its calming and comforting qualities. In the context of Tuvaché's repertoire of single-flower scents like Moroccan Rose, Lily of the Valley, and Lilac, Violet would have fit seamlessly, offering a gentle, floral option amidst potentially turbulent times.

"Violet" would have been an appropriate name for a perfume not only due to its elegant connotations but also because of its timeless appeal. During the late 1930s, women of various backgrounds and ages would have been drawn to such a fragrance. It would resonate with those who appreciated classic femininity and sought solace in a scent that reminded them of gentler, more peaceful times. The perfume would likely have been received with nostalgia and a sense of comfort, offering wearers a subtle yet profound connection to nature's beauty amidst the uncertainties of the era.

The word "violet" itself evokes images of delicate purple flowers nestled in verdant gardens, their soft fragrance lingering in the air. It brings forth feelings of serenity, grace, and perhaps a touch of nostalgia for simpler times. For many, the name "Violet" would invoke memories of springtime, of gardens in bloom, and of the inherent beauty found in nature's quietest corners.

In summary, "Violet" by Tuvaché, launched in 1939, encapsulates an era of elegance and poise, offering a fragrance that speaks to the timeless allure of its namesake flower. Its appeal lies not only in its floral notes but also in its ability to transport wearers to a place of tranquility and natural beauty, making it a fitting choice amidst the complexities of its historical backdrop.

In 1946, Tuvache's perfumes were sold in dram form (1/8 ounce), adjusted calculated inflation prices for 2024 are shown in parenthesis.

• Zezan sold for $12 a dram ($207.08)
• Sumatra sold for $7.00 a dram ($120.80)
• Moroccan Rose for $3.50 ($60.40)
• Gardenia for $2.00 ($34.51)
• Violet for $2.00 ($34.51)
• Tuvara for $2.00 ($34.51) 
• Arabia for $2.00 ($34.51)

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It was a true woodland violet soliflore. Like a nosegay of fragrant violets at the peak of freshness.

• Top notes: violet, cassie, bitter almond, ionone, bergamot, orange blossom
• Middle notes: orris, rose, tuberose, jasmine, geranium, ylang ylang
• Base notes: ambergris, patchouli, tolu balsam, vanilla, musk, ambrette, guaiac wood, civet

Scent Story:

In the bustling halls of Neiman Marcus, the perfume department had been transformed into a floral haven. Fresh violets and roses adorned every corner, their delicate fragrance mingling with the excited murmurs of guests. Among them stood Madame Bernadine Tuvache, a vision of Parisian elegance amidst the bustling crowd, her eyes bright with anticipation as she prepared to unveil her latest creation— "Violet".

As guests gathered around, Mme. Tuvache, with her distinctive air of refinement, welcomed them warmly. Her slender fingers gestured gracefully towards the display of "Violet", nestled amidst bouquets of its namesake flower. "This fragrance," she began, her voice carrying the soft cadence of a seasoned perfumer, "was crafted to complement your casual attire, a touch of innocence for your everyday."

As she spoke, I could almost see the shimmering violet fields stretching under a clear Provencal sky, the sun casting a gentle glow over the fragrant blooms. The perfume's bottle, elegantly simple yet adorned with a glass stopper, seemed to capture the essence of its inspiration—the nosegay of fresh violets at the peak of their fragrance.

I leaned closer, inhaling deeply. The top notes of violet and cassie danced delicately with the bitter almond and the citrusy zest of bergamot and orange blossom, creating an initial burst of floral sweetness tinged with a hint of nuttiness. As the scent settled, the heart revealed itself with a blend of orris root and the lush richness of rose and tuberose, their heady aromas intertwined with the subtle floral sweetness of jasmine and ylang-ylang.

Around me, the ambiance was alive with whispers and laughter, the tinkling of champagne glasses mingling with the soft strains of a violin quartet playing in the background. I could taste the crispness of the chilled champagne, a perfect accompaniment to the airy floral notes of "Violet". The touch of the perfume on my skin felt like a caress, its texture light and velvety, leaving a lingering trail of sophistication and grace.

Mme. Tuvache continued, her words carrying the weight of expertise and passion. "These raw materials," she explained, her gaze flickering with pride, "were sourced from the finest suppliers around the world—each ingredient chosen for its unparalleled quality." She paused, a smile playing on her lips, before revealing the perfume's soul—the intricate base notes of ambergris and patchouli, intertwined with the warmth of vanilla and musk, and underscored by the subtle earthiness of guaiac wood and civet.

In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of "Violet", I felt transported to a world where elegance and simplicity intertwined—a world where a fragrance could evoke not just a scent, but an emotion, a memory, a moment suspended in time. As Mme. Tuvache concluded her introduction, the applause that followed was a testament to the timeless allure of "Violet", a true soliflore capturing the essence of woodland violets at their most pristine.

Modern Packaging, 1944:

"A violet -colored, gold-stamped, sueded label and a chunky square ceramic cap add distinction to Tuvache's newest product — Violet ... Since raffia is used throughout the Tuvache line, the label for the skin perfume carries the same theme."

The New Yorker, 1959:

"Tuvache is noted for single-flower scents that are as up-to-date as tomorrow's newspaper. Now four Tuvache favorites are in cologne form in spray bottles — Moroccan Rose, Lily of the Valley, Lilac, and Violet; $5.50 at Saks."

Bottles:

Violet, c1940, photo by ebay seller arkle

Violet perfume, c1950s, photo by ebay selle asense4scents

Fate of the Fragrance:

"Violet" by Tuvaché, though its exact discontinuation date remains unknown, continued to enchant perfume enthusiasts well into the 1960s. Despite its eventual discontinuation, its legacy persisted through the decade, a testament to its enduring appeal. The fragrance, cherished for its delicate blend of violet, cassie, bitter almond, ionone, bergamot, and orange blossom in the top notes, followed by a heart of orris, rose, tuberose, jasmine, geranium, and ylang ylang, and anchored by a base of ambergris, patchouli, tolu balsam, vanilla, musk, ambrette, guaiac wood, and civet, retained a loyal following. Its absence left a nostalgic echo in the hearts of those who treasured its floral elegance and timeless allure.