In 2017, three passionate perfumers—Paul Richardot, Anthony Toulemonde, and Victorien Sirot—revived this sleeping beauty, infusing the brand with a fresh, modern vision while honoring its rich heritage. The trio, who met while studying at the École Supérieure du Parfum in Paris, share a deep respect for the craftsmanship and traditions of French perfumery. Together, they embarked on a mission to breathe new life into the legacy of Maison Violet, merging its historical prestige with contemporary artistry.
A Legacy of Excellence
Maison Violet’s history is rich with innovation and recognition. Founded a year before the renowned house of Guerlain, the brand quickly established itself as a pioneer in the perfume industry. It held numerous patents, including one for a soap containing thridace, and won accolades at the 1867 Exposition Universelle. By the late 19th century, Maison Violet had expanded internationally, exporting to the United States, Russia, England, and across Europe.
The brand’s rebirth in the 21st century retains its original values of passion, creativity, and excellence, thanks to the efforts of Richardot, Toulemonde, and Sirot. By meticulously researching the brand’s archives, they were able to revive old formulas, breathing new life into classic scents while updating them for contemporary tastes.
A New Vision for Perfumery
The Maison Violet team is committed to offering unique, sensory experiences that reflect their belief that fragrance is more than just a product—it is a form of artistic expression. They view perfume as a way to connect people through emotions and senses, and their creations are designed to evoke deep feelings of individuality and authenticity. This vision is encapsulated in their philosophy: “We are here to dream.”
In keeping with their commitment to responsible creation, the team at Maison Violet has embedded sustainability into their production processes. They have adopted eco-friendly practices, sourcing natural ingredients from sustainable and fair-trade partners, and emphasizing responsible chemistry to reduce environmental impact. This commitment to both luxury and sustainability sets Maison Violet apart as a modern perfumery that respects its roots while looking towards the future.
A Collection That Honors the Past and Embraces the Future
Maison Violet’s current offering is a tribute to its historical roots, with a modern twist. The Heritage Collection, composed of six distinct perfumes, draws inspiration from the brand’s original creations. Each scent—Compliment, Nuée Bleue, Un Air d’Apogée, Sketch, Tanagra, and Abîme—reimagines classic formulas with contemporary flair. Signature ingredients like Iris Pallida, known as the “blue gold” of perfumery, give these fragrances a timeless elegance.
Maison Violet also embraces artistic freedom through its Cycle Collection. This limited-edition series allows the brand to break free from the constraints of its heritage line, collaborating with artists and perfumers to create unique and contemporary scents. These creations are produced in small batches, with 100% biodegradable packaging, reflecting the brand’s dedication to both creativity and sustainability.
The most recent addition to the Heritage Collection, Pour Rêver, exemplifies the brand’s innovative approach. This unisex fragrance envelops the wearer in a cocoon of warmth, blending notes of hazelnut, chestnut, chocolate, rum, and smoky guaiac wood. It’s a scent designed to inspire daydreams and indulgence, transporting its wearer to a world of sweet escape.
A Responsible Future
Maison Violet is as committed to the planet as it is to the art of fragrance. In 2024, the brand launched a new, more sustainable version of its iconic bottle, using 50% less glass. The bottles are now refillable, further reducing the brand’s environmental impact. Additionally, all of Maison Violet’s packaging is made from eco-friendly materials sourced from local French partners, ensuring a minimal carbon footprint.
The brand’s perfumes are vegan, and synthetic ingredients are used responsibly to protect the environment from the over-harvesting of natural resources. For instance, rather than using animal-derived products, the brand opts for synthetic alternatives that mimic their properties without compromising on quality.
Maison Violet’s revival is not just a tribute to its illustrious past, but a celebration of the future of perfumery. With a commitment to crafting high-quality, sustainable fragrances, the brand invites perfume lovers to explore their unique olfactory signature and experience the art of scent in its most authentic and meaningful form.
For more information and to explore Maison Violet’s range of products, visit MaisonViolet.com.