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.
