1852-

Jean-Baptiste left his native Aubagne for Paris to pursue his passion for perfumery and the art of scent, where he went on to establish Maison Rigaud.

Over the next century, Jean-Baptiste proved himself to be a visionary perfumer and an exceptional innovator. Embracing current trends in English culture, he named his boutique Parfumerie Victoria in homage to Queen Victoria. 

Rigaud’s fragrances emerged with a captivating presence on the scene with Bouquet Victoria, Jockey Club, and the playfully named Kiss Me Quick. With exploration and curiosity at the brand’s heart, Rigaud turned to exotic ingredients, creating Essence of Ylang Ylang and Eau de Kananga, inspired by the Kananga flower of Japan.

1898 -

The company was later entrusted to his wife and son, Henri. Continuing his father’s legacy and passion for perfumery, Henri created several renowned fragrances, including Camia, beloved by Queen Alexandra, along with Chypres de Rigaud, Un Rêve, and Vers la Joie. 

Henri Rigaud’s Un Air Embaumée became a sensation in French society, inspiring art, poetry, and devoted fans worldwide.

1914 -

Following the Second World War, Parfumerie Rigaud entered its third generation under Mario Rigaud and his wife, Viviane. Together, they envisioned something entirely new: the world’s first marketed scented candle.

1959  -

Their creation came to life with Cyprès, a groundbreaking fragrance inspired by the pine forests of the Mediterranean. To bring it to life, they developed a patented soft wax designed to diffuse scent with remarkable intensity and lasting power.

Rigaud’s story transcended borders when General Charles de Gaulle famously gifted a Rigaud candle to Jacqueline Kennedy, a symbolic gesture that illuminated the Franco-American bond. Soon after, Rigaud became the candle of choice among tastemakers, visionaries, and cultural icons in the United States.