Ambre by Guerlain c1839

In 1839, Pierre-François Pascal Guerlain chose the name "Ambré" for his fragrance, reflecting the deep allure of ambergris. The term "Ambré" is derived from the French word for amber, which itself comes from the Arabic "anbar," referring to ambergris, a rare and highly prized material in perfumery. The name evokes images of warm, golden hues and the richness of ancient treasures, suggesting a fragrance that embodies luxury and opulence. The word "Ambré" conjures the allure of deep, resinous warmth, hinting at a scent that is both sensual and enduring.

In scent, "Ambré" captures the essence of ambergris with its complex, rich, and somewhat animalic character. Ambergris, known for its sweet, musky, and slightly marine quality, imparts a warm, resinous depth to the fragrance. The scent of ambergris is both exotic and comforting, evoking the sensation of sunlit amber stones warmed by the ocean, blending the tactile warmth of amber with the deep, mysterious undertones of the sea.

For women of the 19th century, a perfume named "Ambré" would have been particularly appealing as it signified an exotic and luxurious olfactory experience. During this period, perfumes were often a symbol of sophistication and social status, and the inclusion of ambergris, a rare ingredient associated with the wealthy elite, would have reinforced the perfume's prestige and exclusivity. Women who wore "Ambré" would have embraced a fragrance that was not only a statement of their refined taste but also an emblem of their connection to the latest in perfume innovation.

The 19th century was a time of significant advancements in the perfume industry, with the introduction of new ingredients and techniques. Guerlain's "Ambré" emerged in an era when natural extracts and animalics were highly valued, and the use of ambergris would have been seen as both modern and luxurious. As the century progressed, the increasing sophistication of synthetic materials began to influence perfumery, but the allure of traditional, natural ingredients like ambergris continued to captivate and inspire.