Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala c1925

Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala, introduced by Lentheric in 1925, is a captivating relic of a bygone era. The name translates from French as "The Perfume of the Maharajah of Kapurthala," blending an air of regal opulence with exotic allure. The choice of this name was a strategic nod to both historical grandeur and colonial fascination with the exotic East, appealing to a sophisticated audience eager for scents that evoked far-off lands and illustrious figures.

The Maharajah of Kapurthala refers to the princely ruler of the princely state of Kapurthala, located in the Punjab region of India. During the early 20th century, British colonial society was enamored with the mystique of India, and the Maharajahs, with their opulent lifestyles and rich cultural heritage, represented the epitome of this fascination. By naming the fragrance after such a distinguished figure, Lentheric tapped into the allure and exoticism associated with Indian royalty, infusing the perfume with an aura of luxury and sophistication.

The name Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala evokes images of lavish palaces adorned with intricate tapestries, and the rich, sensory experiences of an Indian court. It conjures the opulence of a world steeped in tradition, with scents that might remind one of sprawling gardens filled with exotic spices and resplendent floral arrangements. The perfume likely aimed to capture this regal and aromatic splendor in its composition.

In terms of scent, Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala is classified as a spicy floral oriental fragrance, which aligns perfectly with the opulent imagery evoked by its name. The fragrance features a rich blend of the exotic spices of cinnamon and clove, harmoniously intertwined with lush floral notes, and underpinned by the deep, warm oriental bases of ambergris and sandalwood. This combination creates a scent profile that is both luxurious and enveloping, resonating with the sophistication and mystery of an Indian Maharajah’s court.

During the 1920s, the fragrance market was characterized by a fascination with the exotic and the luxurious. The era saw the rise of oriental and floral perfumes that aimed to transport wearers to distant, glamorous locales. Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala fit seamlessly into this trend, offering a unique take on the spicy floral oriental genre. Its association with a historical figure and a princely state would have further set it apart from other contemporary fragrances, providing wearers with a sense of unique elegance and an escape into the world of Indian royalty. The perfume would have appealed to women of the time seeking to embody sophistication and intrigue through their choice of scent, embracing the allure of an exotic and regal past.

Fragrance Composition:

It is classified as a spicy floral oriental fragrance for women. It opens with a brisk citrusy top, followed by a rich floral heart, resting on a warm, spicy oriental base.

• Top notes: aldehydes, neroli, bergamot, petitgrain, green notes
• Middle notes: jasmine, rose, carnation, ylang ylang, orange blossom, clove, cinnamon 
• Base notes: styrax, ambergris, labdanum, leather, patchouli, musk, pepper, vanilla, sandalwood

It is so rare that I have only had a small sample of this years ago, given to me by a friend, these are the notes I have written down in my archives.

Scent Profile:

Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala unfolds with a captivating olfactory journey that begins with a brisk, invigorating top note. The initial impression is a sparkling blend of aldehydes and neroli, which burst forth with a fresh, zesty brilliance. 

Aldehydes add a bright, soapy clean quality, lifting the fragrance with their crisp effervescence, while neroli brings a touch of delicate, orange-floral sweetness. This citrusy freshness is further enhanced by bergamot's tangy brightness and the slightly woody, green notes of petitgrain, which together create a vibrant and uplifting opening.

As the fragrance evolves, it transitions into a rich, opulent floral heart. Jasmine emerges as the star, its voluptuous and intoxicating scent wrapping around you like a warm embrace, blending seamlessly with the lush, romantic notes of rose. The addition of carnation introduces a spicy, clove-like nuance, adding depth and complexity. 

Ylang ylang contributes a creamy, tropical sweetness that harmonizes with the bright, sunny essence of orange blossom. This floral bouquet is further enriched by hints of clove and cinnamon, which infuse the heart with a warm, spicy edge that enhances the overall richness of the fragrance.

The base notes of Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala anchor the scent in a warm, exotic embrace. Styrax and labdanum provide a resinous, balsamic quality that adds depth and a touch of smokiness. Ambergris and vanilla lend a luxurious sweetness, while leather introduces a rugged, sensual warmth that evokes the opulence of a Maharajah's palace. 

Patchouli adds an earthy, woody dimension, and musk imparts a soft, animalic undertone that lingers delicately on the skin. Pepper introduces a subtle, piquant spiciness that complements the fragrance’s warm, resinous base. Sandalwood's creamy, woody richness ties everything together, creating a harmonious and sophisticated finish.

Together, these ingredients create a complex and multifaceted scent profile that reflects the opulence and exoticism associated with its namesake. Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala is a fragrance that evokes images of luxurious palaces and grand, historical spectacles, inviting you to experience the regal splendor of a bygone era through its exquisite blend of spicy, floral, and oriental notes.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala was discontinued at an undetermined date, marking the end of an exquisite chapter in fragrance history. This opulent perfume, which once captured the essence of Indian royalty with its exotic blend of spicy, floral, and oriental notes, gradually faded from the market. Despite its illustrious past, the precise timing of its discontinuation remains a mystery, adding an element of intrigue to its legacy.

The discontinuation of Le Parfum du Maharajah de Kapurthala reflects the shifting trends and evolving tastes in the fragrance industry. As the world of perfume continued to innovate and change, this once-celebrated scent eventually gave way to new creations. However, its absence only enhances its allure as a rare and coveted relic for collectors and enthusiasts, preserving its place as a symbol of luxury and sophistication from a bygone era.