The history of Russian perfumery before the 1917 Revolution is a fascinating blend of foreign influence and artistic craftsmanship. While perfume had been present in Russia for centuries, it was the 19th and early 20th centuries that marked the golden age of Russian fragrance production. Influenced heavily by French perfumery, Russian perfume houses manufactured domestically and developed their own unique scents which became emblematic of the era. However, with the onset of the Russian Revolution, the industry underwent radical changes that reshaped its future. In this first chapter, let’s delve into the evolution of Russian perfumery, its French connections, important historic fragrances, and the profound impact of the Revolution…
