Secret Princesse Nefertiti
Babani (1938)

Maurice Babani (1894 – 1940) was a Parisian couturier, noted for his stylish dresses, draping the body as a kimono or second skin, that proliferated during the Roaring Twenties and Thirties. He was the second couturier in history, after Paul Poiret, to introduce a scent line. In the course of his life, he released 40 scents, beginning with the 1919 Ambre de Delhi (a Hindu perfume) and ending with his 1943 Echo of the Desert.

His perfumes were given exotic names, referencing the far East, and containing rare and precious oils and resins. Japan, China, Manila, and Egypt leant their names to his creations. His fourth from last creation was his Secret Princesse Nefertiti, released in 1937.

This is a rich, deep, mysterious, rose-centered floral bouquet, bolstered by a solid base of Patchouli, Sandalwood, Ambergris, Vanilla and Musk. It is a linear scent without much development, but the notes are expertly blended and weave beautifully in and out.

Despite Elizabeth Arden's devotion to Babani, her attempt to market six of his scents to American audiences in the 1920s did not meet with success. His bottles are noted for their black and gold design, which Jeanne Lanvin borrowed for her iconic presentations.

A lovely floral bouquet and a treat to discover.