Promesa by Myrurgia c1917

The perfume "Promesa" by Myrurgia was launched in 1917, a time period marked by the aftermath of World War I. This era was characterized by a longing for stability, peace, and a return to the romantic ideals that had been disrupted by the war. In this context, themes of romance and fidelity held deep significance. The war had separated many couples, and the notion of a faithful promise became a powerful symbol of enduring love and commitment.

The Spanish word "Promesa" translates to "promise" in English. Choosing this name for a perfume encapsulates the idea of a heartfelt pledge, evoking a sense of trust, hope, and the enduring nature of a promise kept. For Myrurgia, the name "Promesa" would have been a poignant choice, reflecting the company's desire to offer a product that symbolizes unwavering fidelity and romantic devotion.

"Promesa" is an excellent name for a perfume because it suggests something intimate and personal. Perfumes are often associated with memories and emotions, and the concept of a "promise" ties directly into the emotional connections people have with scent. Women of the time period, who were navigating the challenges and changes brought about by the war, would likely have been drawn to a perfume that embodied the idea of constancy and loyalty.

Women would have related to a perfume called "Promesa" as a representation of their own hopes and desires for lasting love. The name would resonate with their experiences, whether they were waiting for loved ones to return from the war or seeking to maintain a sense of romance in challenging times. The fragrance would serve as a fragrant reminder of their own personal promises and commitments.

The word "Promesa" evokes images and emotions of trust, devotion, and a deep connection between individuals. It brings to mind the intimate moments shared between lovers, the quiet assurance of mutual support, and the strength found in loyalty. As a perfume name, it is unique and carries a depth of meaning that would distinguish it from other fragrances of the time.

Interpreted, the word "Promesa" signifies a heartfelt commitment and the beauty of keeping one's word. It reflects an ideal of romantic love that endures through time and challenges. For women in 1917, "Promesa" would not just be a fragrance but a symbol of their own values and the emotional bonds they cherished. The name would imbue the perfume with a sense of romance and fidelity, making it an appealing and meaningful choice for many.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does the original smell like? It is classified as floral fougere fragrance for women.

• Top notes: bergamot, neroli, narcissus and lavender
• Middle notes: fern, Riviera jasmine, Bulgarian rose and lily of the valley
• Base notes: oakmoss, Mysore sandalwood, ambergris, Indian musk, cedar, patchouli, tonka bean, labdanum

Scent Profile:

In the heart of a small Spanish village in 1917, a bride prepares for her wedding day. The sun bathes the cobblestone streets in a golden hue, and the air is filled with a sense of anticipation and joy. As you step into the courtyard of her family’s home, the scene unfolds with vivid sensory details.

The courtyard is adorned with garlands of white and yellow flowers, and the scent of fresh bergamot wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet, intoxicating aroma of blooming narcissus. This delicate fragrance evokes a sense of new beginnings and purity, perfectly capturing the essence of the day. The bride, a vision in her lace veil and flowing white gown, stands near a table laden with fragrant offerings. The citrusy zest of neroli fills the air, its orange blossom notes bringing a touch of vibrancy and excitement. Nearby, a bouquet of lavender adds a calming, herbal undertone, soothing the nerves of the young bride as she prepares for her vows.

As you move closer to the bride, the heart of the fragrance reveals itself. The middle notes begin to unfold, enveloping you in a lush, floral embrace. The rich, green scent of fern intertwines with the delicate, exotic aroma of Riviera jasmine, symbolizing the beauty and elegance of the bride. The fragrance of Bulgarian rose, deep and velvety, speaks of timeless love and passion, while the lily of the valley adds a sweet, almost ethereal quality, reminiscent of the innocence and hope of the bride’s promises.

The sounds of the village come alive as the ceremony draws near. You hear the soft strumming of a Spanish guitar, its melodic tunes mingling with the laughter and chatter of the gathered guests. The scent of fresh bread and pastries from a nearby bakery tempts your senses, their warm, comforting aroma promising a festive feast to come. You can almost taste the sweetness of the traditional Spanish desserts, their flavors dancing on your tongue in anticipation.

As the bride takes her first steps toward the altar, the base notes of her perfume create a grounding, sensual foundation. The earthy richness of oakmoss and the creamy, exotic scent of Mysore sandalwood lend a sense of depth and stability to the moment. Ambergris, with its warm, musky quality, wraps around you like a tender embrace, while the soft, powdery scent of Indian musk adds a layer of sophistication. The woody aroma of cedar and the spicy, sweet note of patchouli infuse the air with a sense of mystery and allure. Tonka bean and labdanum, with their rich, balsamic sweetness, complete the olfactory experience, evoking a sense of warmth and lasting devotion.

The bride’s hand trembles slightly as she touches the delicate lace of her veil, the fabric soft and intricate under her fingers. She takes a deep breath, her heart swelling with the promises she is about to make. The fragrance of Promesa surrounds her, a testament to the vows of love and fidelity she will soon declare. As she speaks her promises, the scent becomes a part of the memory, an enduring symbol of her commitment and the beginning of her new life.

In this moment, every ingredient of the perfume comes together, creating an unforgettable tapestry of scent, sight, sound, taste, and touch. The fragrance of Promesa is more than just a perfume; it is a sensory celebration of love, promises, and the beauty of a bride on her wedding day in 1917 Spain.

Bottles:

In 1942, the packaging changed to the packaging style below.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Promesa, the cherished fragrance by Myrurgia, carried the essence of romantic vows and fidelity from its launch in 1917 through the mid-20th century. This floral fougère fragrance, with its intricate blend of bergamot, narcissus, neroli, lavender, fern, Riviera jasmine, Bulgarian rose, lily of the valley, oakmoss, Mysore sandalwood, ambergris, Indian musk, cedar, patchouli, tonka bean, and labdanum, captured the hearts of many women. Its enduring appeal made it a beloved choice, embodying the romantic ideals and timeless beauty of its era.

However, as the decades progressed, Promesa faced the inevitable shifts in the fragrance market. By 1950, it was still available, continuing to evoke memories of the past and the enduring nature of promises made. Yet, somewhere in the latter half of the 20th century, Promesa quietly disappeared from the shelves. The exact date of its discontinuation remains unknown, shrouded in the mists of time, much like the scent itself.

2000 Reformulation & Relaunch:

The absence of Promesa left a void for those who cherished its unique blend and the memories it evoked. It became a relic of a bygone era, a reminder of a time when love and fidelity were captured in a bottle. Yet, the story of Promesa did not end there. In 2000, Myrurgia decided to bring back this iconic fragrance, reformulated to appeal to contemporary tastes while preserving the essence of its original composition.

The relaunch of Promesa in 2000 was a nod to its storied past, a revival that aimed to introduce the timeless allure of this floral fougère to a new generation. The reformulated fragrance sought to balance modern sensibilities with the classic notes that had made it a beloved choice decades earlier. The reimagined Promesa retained the essence of bergamot, narcissus, neroli, and lavender, maintaining its fresh and vibrant top notes. The heart of the fragrance, with its lush fern, Riviera jasmine, Bulgarian rose, and lily of the valley, continued to evoke the romantic and elegant spirit of the original. The base notes of oakmoss, Mysore sandalwood, ambergris, Indian musk, cedar, patchouli, tonka bean, and labdanum provided a rich and enduring foundation, grounding the fragrance in warmth and depth.

This relaunch was more than just a return of a classic scent; it was a revival of the emotions, memories, and promises that Promesa had always symbolized. For those who remembered the original, it was a chance to reconnect with a cherished part of their past. For new admirers, it was an introduction to a fragrance steeped in history and romance, a timeless testament to the power of promises kept.

In bringing Promesa back, Myrurgia honored its legacy and ensured that the fragrance would continue to enchant and inspire for years to come. The reformulated Promesa, launched in 2000, stands as a bridge between the past and the present, a beautiful reminder that some promises are meant to last forever.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does the reformulation smell like? It is classified as an aromatic fruity floral fragrance for women. Created by Ramon Monegal.

• Top notes: bergamot and green tea
• Middle notes: jasmine, rose and lily of the valley
• Base notes: sandalwood, amber, musk, cedar

Scent Profile:

The reformulated version of Promesa, crafted by the renowned perfumer Ramon Monegal, presents a modern take on the classic fragrance. Classified as an aromatic fruity floral fragrance for women, it opens with a fresh and invigorating blend of bergamot and green tea. The top notes create an immediate impression of brightness and clarity, with the citrusy zest of bergamot mingling with the crisp, herbal essence of green tea. This combination evokes a sense of revitalization and energy, akin to a refreshing morning breeze.

As the initial freshness begins to settle, the heart of the fragrance unfolds, revealing a delicate bouquet of jasmine, rose, and lily of the valley. The jasmine adds a sweet, exotic floral note, while the rose contributes a timeless, romantic depth. The lily of the valley brings a soft, almost ethereal quality, reminiscent of spring blossoms. Together, these middle notes create a harmonious and elegant floral symphony, capturing the essence of feminine grace and beauty.

The base notes of the reformulated Promesa provide a warm and grounding foundation. The creamy richness of sandalwood is complemented by the resinous warmth of amber, creating a sense of depth and sophistication. The musk adds a subtle, sensual undertone, enhancing the overall allure of the fragrance. The woody aroma of cedar rounds out the base notes, infusing the scent with a touch of earthiness and strength.

This modern interpretation of Promesa blends the vibrant, refreshing qualities of its top notes with the timeless elegance of its floral heart and the warm, grounding elements of its base. The result is a fragrance that feels both contemporary and enduring, a reflection of the promises and emotions that inspired its original creation.

In wearing the reformulated Promesa, one experiences a journey through vibrant freshness, delicate florals, and warm, comforting woods. It is a scent that embodies the spirit of modern romance while honoring its rich heritage, making it a fitting tribute to the enduring allure of promises made and kept.