Kriss by Guerlain, launched in 1942 during the height of World War II, stands as a striking creation by Jacques Guerlain. The name "Kriss" was carefully chosen to evoke the mystique and symbolic power of the keris (or kriss), a serpentine dagger from Southeast Asia, primarily Indonesia, Sumatra, and Malaysia. This ceremonial weapon, pronounced "Kreess," is revered for its spiritual significance, often believed to possess magical powers. Used in religious rites and as a weapon of personal defense, the kriss represents both protection and aggression, a balance of life and death. The weapon's undulating blade, sharp and serpentine, conjures images of ancient traditions, stealth, and danger, which, when translated into fragrance, evokes a sense of mystery, exoticism, and intensity.
The word "Kriss" immediately suggests power and an enigmatic allure, stirring emotions of intrigue and danger. Women in the 1940s, particularly in occupied Paris, might have been drawn to the name for its exotic connotations, offering a fantasy escape from the harsh realities of war. The scent itself, classified as an oriental fougère, would embody this duality—a blend of rich, oriental notes softened by fougère freshness. Such a combination would feel both grounding and sensuous, evoking far-flung lands yet firmly rooted in the timeless elegance expected of a Guerlain fragrance. Kriss might have been perceived as a fragrance for a strong, confident woman, one who, despite the turmoil surrounding her, embraced both sophistication and strength.
The year 1942 marked a tumultuous period, with Nazi forces occupying Paris. Perfume production, like many industries, was deeply affected by the war. Resources were scarce, and access to certain ingredients was limited due to blockades and supply disruptions. Despite this, Guerlain managed to continue creating fragrances, possibly benefiting from a strategic relationship with high-ranking Nazi officials. According to an unfounded rumor, Jacques Guerlain may have designed Kriss for a high-ranking Nazi officer, which, if true, could have been a pragmatic move to ensure the survival of his business during a perilous time. Maintaining such relationships would have provided Guerlain with protection and access to materials and markets otherwise closed off due to the occupation.
The word "Kriss" immediately suggests power and an enigmatic allure, stirring emotions of intrigue and danger. Women in the 1940s, particularly in occupied Paris, might have been drawn to the name for its exotic connotations, offering a fantasy escape from the harsh realities of war. The scent itself, classified as an oriental fougère, would embody this duality—a blend of rich, oriental notes softened by fougère freshness. Such a combination would feel both grounding and sensuous, evoking far-flung lands yet firmly rooted in the timeless elegance expected of a Guerlain fragrance. Kriss might have been perceived as a fragrance for a strong, confident woman, one who, despite the turmoil surrounding her, embraced both sophistication and strength.
The year 1942 marked a tumultuous period, with Nazi forces occupying Paris. Perfume production, like many industries, was deeply affected by the war. Resources were scarce, and access to certain ingredients was limited due to blockades and supply disruptions. Despite this, Guerlain managed to continue creating fragrances, possibly benefiting from a strategic relationship with high-ranking Nazi officials. According to an unfounded rumor, Jacques Guerlain may have designed Kriss for a high-ranking Nazi officer, which, if true, could have been a pragmatic move to ensure the survival of his business during a perilous time. Maintaining such relationships would have provided Guerlain with protection and access to materials and markets otherwise closed off due to the occupation.
