Whispers of Royalty: Lubin's 'Black Jade' Perfume Reveals the Allure of Marie Antoinette's Fragrance

From Royal Courts to Global Scents: Lubin's Storied History Unveiled

Lubin, an illustrious perfume house with roots dating back to 1798, holds an extraordinary place in the fragrant tapestry of history. Founded amid the turbulence of the French Revolution, Lubin's story began when the young Pierre-François Lubin apprenticed under Jean-Louis Fargeon, the perfumer to Queen Marie Antoinette. Post-conflict, Lubin seamlessly inherited his mentor's legacy, becoming a favored supplier not only to the imperial court but also to Empress Josephine and the fashionable circles of merveilleuses and incroyables in 19th-century France. By the 1830s, Lubin achieved the distinction of being the first French perfume house to export its exquisite creations to the United States. Over the years, Lubin's trajectory has been marked by transitions of ownership, surviving the challenges of the mid-19th century and changing hands among various multinational corporations. Rescued from near obscurity by Gilles Thevenin, former director of creation at Guerlain, Lubin stands today as a testament to the enduring allure of perfumery, blending historical elegance with modern sensibilities.

Lubin's Fragrant Revival: Gilles Thevenin's Discovery of Marie Antoinette's Final Scent

Gilles Thevenin, the visionary behind the revival of the historic Lubin perfume house, embarked on a journey that unexpectedly connected him to Marie Antoinette's last fragrance. Acquiring Lubin, he delved into its rich history dating back to the French Revolution, where Pierre-François Lubin, an apprentice to the queen's perfumer, laid the foundation. Thevenin's relentless pursuit led him to stumble upon the original formula for Marie Antoinette's final scent, known as Bouquet de la Reine. Unveiling this olfactory treasure, preserved through generations, Thevenin introduced "Black Jade," a modern interpretation blending rose, jasmine, and spices from French colonies. Beyond the allure of a 230-year-old formula, Thevenin finds fascination in the talismanic vial that once belonged to the queen, offering a tale of hope and fortune across centuries.

Time-Transcending Elegance: Lubin's 'Black Jade' Perfume - Royal Legacy and Modern Allure

Step into the exquisite world of Lubin's fragrance masterpiece, "Black Jade," a perfume that captivates and resurrects the iconic 'Bouquet de la Reine,' cherished by none other than Marie Antoinette herself. As the fragrance unfurls, the initial burst is a symphony of brightness and spice, with top notes of galbanum, bergamot, and cardamom that dance on the senses like rays of sunlight piercing through a winter morning. The journey then evolves into a sweet, powdery embrace, revealing the heart notes of rose and jasmine, draped in the smoky allure of incense and the warm caress of cinnamon. The base notes, including sandalwood, patchouli, vanilla, tonka bean, and amber, form a lingering melody that transcends time. Marie Antoinette, drawn to its regal blend, purportedly adorned herself with this fragrance even on the solemn day of her execution, finding solace in its comforting elegance.

This olfactory masterpiece, "Black Jade," not only captures the essence of Marie Antoinette's refined taste but also pays homage to the opulence of her favorite rooms in the Petit Trianon. The bottle and packaging, adorned in colors reminiscent of the boudoir in this royal sanctuary, reflect the grandeur and sophistication of the queen's personal haven. Picture yourself navigating the day, the perfume transforming with each passing hour. In the morning, the bright and spicy overture awakens your senses, while the afternoon unfolds into a garden of sweet, powdery roses, reminiscent of a leisurely stroll through Marie Antoinette's favorite gardens. As evening descends, the base notes wrap you in a cozy embrace, leaving an indelible trail of warmth and sophistication.

With its roots in history, "Black Jade" not only captures the essence of Marie Antoinette's refined taste but also transcends into a modern, timeless allure. Wear it during the colder months, where its rich, comforting notes create a cocoon of luxury. Elevate your senses, embrace the legacy, and embark on a fragrant journey that intertwines the past and present—a scent that whispers tales of royalty and indulgence. Immerse yourself in the allure of Lubin's "Black Jade," a fragrance that transcends time and tradition, inviting you to experience the epitome of elegance and sophistication, all encased in packaging that echoes the regal ambiance of the Petit Trianon.

Conclusion

In the tapestry of perfumery, Lubin stands as a venerable chapter, weaving together the threads of history and modernity. From its origins in the tumultuous times of the French Revolution to becoming the favored supplier of royalty, Lubin's journey is a testament to the enduring allure of fragrance. Gilles Thevenin's revival of the historic house, marked by the discovery of Marie Antoinette's final scent, brings forth the masterpiece known as "Black Jade."

"Black Jade" is more than a fragrance; it is a time-transcending elegance that captures the essence of Marie Antoinette's refined taste while embracing a modern allure. The symphony of bright top notes, the sweet embrace of rose and jasmine, and the lingering warmth of base notes create an olfactory masterpiece that resonates with both history and contemporary sophistication.

This fragrant resurrection invites you to traverse the corridors of time, from the opulence of Marie Antoinette's chambers to the modern luxury of today. As you embark on a fragrant journey, consider making "Black Jade" a part of your own story. This exquisite perfume, a blend of historical elegance and modern sensibilities, is available for purchase on Lubin's website.

Are you intrigued by the allure of "Black Jade"? Experience the epitome of elegance and sophistication as you immerse yourself in this fragrance that whispers tales of royalty and indulgence. Follow us on our socials - X and Facebook - for more intriguing topics like this, and elevate your senses with the timeless allure of Lubin's "Black Jade."