When Jeanne Lanvin launched Arpège in 1927, she chose a name that resonated deeply with her personal life and artistic vision. The word "Arpège," derived from the French term for "arpeggio," refers to the musical technique of playing notes in succession rather than simultaneously, creating a graceful cascade of sound. Pronounced "ahr-PEZH" (with a soft "zh" sound, like the French word "beige"), the name evokes images of harmonious beauty and lyrical refinement. It was a fitting tribute to Lanvin's only daughter, Marie-Blanche, a talented pianist and the muse behind much of her work. The name Arpège captures the essence of music, art, and maternal devotion, reflecting Lanvin’s desire to create a fragrance as timeless and elegant as a masterful melody.
In 1927, the world was in the midst of the Roaring Twenties, a decade defined by exuberance, modernity, and cultural transformation. Known as the Art Deco period, this era celebrated bold, geometric designs, lavish ornamentation, and the fusion of art and craftsmanship. Women were embracing newfound freedoms: short haircuts, flapper dresses, and an unapologetic sense of sophistication. Perfume became a powerful accessory, reflecting a woman's identity and the luxurious glamour of the time. Against this backdrop, Arpège stood out as a beacon of refinement, offering an olfactory representation of the elegance and artistry that Lanvin epitomized.
For women of the time, a perfume named Arpège likely carried an air of sophistication and cultural cachet. The name evoked images of concert halls, grand pianos, and the artistry of classical music—a connection that spoke to the intellectual and artistic aspirations of the modern woman. Wearing Arpège would have felt like stepping into a world of cultivated elegance, a reminder of the beauty that could be found in both art and life.
In scent, the concept of "Arpège" is interpreted as a harmonious composition, with each note playing its part in a symphonic arrangement. Created by André Fraysse and Paul Vacher, Arpège utilized over 60 natural ingredients to craft a fragrance as complex and nuanced as a musical masterpiece. The opening is an exaltation of aldehydes, bright and sparkling, paired with the crisp citrus of bergamot and the honeyed sweetness of neroli. These notes create an airy, radiant overture that sets the stage for the heart of the fragrance.
