Joya by Myrurgia c1924

The 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties, was a time of significant cultural and social change, marked by economic prosperity and a move towards modernity in art, fashion, and lifestyle. This era saw a fascination with luxury and opulence, partly as a reaction to the austerity of World War I. Jewelry, or "joyas" in Spanish, became symbols of wealth, glamour, and the liberated spirit of the time. The period was also notable for its burgeoning film industry, with silent films often showcasing themes of romance, wealth, and exoticism, which complemented the allure of luxurious items like fine perfumes and jewels.

Myrurgia's choice of the name "Joya" for their perfume in 1924 taps into these cultural currents. The word "Joya" means "jewel" in Spanish, and it evokes images of elegance, beauty, and rarity. These connotations are perfectly suited to a luxury perfume, designed to be a precious and cherished item. Naming the perfume "Joya" aligns it with the opulence and sophistication associated with high-quality jewelry, suggesting that the fragrance is as valuable and exquisite as a fine jewel.

During this transitional period into the Art Deco era, the design and fashion trends were greatly influenced by the lavishness and geometric elegance characteristic of Art Deco design. Popular gemstones included diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, rubies, onyx, pearls, and amethyst, each prized for its beauty and rarity. These stones often featured in intricate designs that highlighted the clean lines and sharp angles of the Art Deco style. Precious metals such as platinum, white gold, and to a lesser extent, yellow gold, were used to create settings that enhanced the brilliance of these gemstones. Platinum, in particular, was favored for its strength and neutral color, making it ideal for the detailed and symmetrical designs of the period.

For women of the 1920s, a perfume named "Joya" would resonate deeply. The decade was one of emancipation and empowerment, with women breaking free from traditional roles and exploring new freedoms, including in their fashion and lifestyle choices. A perfume called "Joya" would appeal to their desire for luxury and self-expression, embodying the new sense of identity and sophistication they were cultivating. The name would suggest that wearing the perfume was akin to adorning oneself with a beautiful piece of jewelry, enhancing their allure and elegance.

Maderas de Oriente by Myrurgia c1918

Launched in 1918, Maderas de Oriente emerged during a period marked by the West's intense fascination with orientalism. This cultural movement saw Western artists, writers, and designers drawing inspiration from the art, architecture, and literature of the East, creating works that evoked the mystery and romance of faraway lands. The Spanish word "Maderas de Oriente" translates to "Woods of the East" in English, encapsulating this allure. In the aftermath of World War I, Europe was yearning for escapism and the exoticism promised by the East, making the launch of such a perfume timely and appealing.

Myrurgia's choice of the name "Maderas de Oriente" reflects a deliberate attempt to evoke the exotic and luxurious connotations associated with the East. The name itself suggests rich, aromatic woods, with a particular nod to sandalwood—a prized material in perfumery known for its warm, creamy scent. By including actual sandalwood sticks inside the bottle, Myrurgia not only heightened the olfactory experience but also created a tangible connection to the perfume's oriental theme.

For women of the time, a perfume called "Maderas de Oriente" would have embodied an invitation to an exotic sensory journey. It would have conjured images of opulent Eastern landscapes, adorned with lush gardens, bustling bazaars, and intricately carved palaces. The name evokes a sense of mystery, luxury, and timeless beauty, resonating deeply with contemporary desires for escapism and romantic adventure.

The emotional response to "Maderas de Oriente" would likely be one of fascination, intrigue, and desire. It invites the user to immerse themselves in a world far removed from their everyday reality, offering a moment of escape and fantasy. Women of the time would respond to this perfume with curiosity and delight, eager to experience the exotic and luxurious qualities it promised. The presence of actual sandalwood sticks inside the bottle would have reinforced the authenticity and exotic allure of the fragrance, making it not just a scent but an experience and a conversation piece.

The name "Maderas de Oriente" evokes a rich tapestry of images and emotions. It suggests a world of fragrant woods, ancient traditions, and sensory indulgence. The scent of sandalwood, a key component, would bring to mind the warmth and depth of Eastern landscapes. For women, this name would evoke fantasies of travel and exploration, of stepping into a world far removed from their everyday lives.

In the context of early 20th-century perfumery, "Maderas de Oriente" stood out as a unique name. It not only highlighted the exotic ingredients but also told a story, tapping into the cultural zeitgeist of the time. The name would be interpreted as a symbol of sophistication and worldliness, appealing to women who saw themselves as modern and cosmopolitan.

Ultimately, "Maderas de Oriente" by Myrurgia captured the essence of an era enthralled by the mystique of the East. Its name, its composition, and its presentation all worked together to create a fragrance that was more than just a scent—it was an invitation to a world of exotic enchantment.