Henri Robert
Henri Robert | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1899 Grasse, France |
| Died | 1987 |
| Occupation(s) | Chemist, perfumer |
| Years active | 1919–1978 |
| Known for | Chief Perfumer at Les Parfums Chanel (1953–1978) |
Henri Robert (1899, Grasse – 1987) was a French chemist and perfumer, renowned for his role as Chief Perfumer at Les Parfums Chanel from 1953 until 1978.
Early life and career
Henri Robert was the son of Joseph Robert, who served as Chief Perfumer at Chiris and pioneered the solvent extraction technique that revolutionized raw material processing in the perfume industry. By 1919, Henri was employed at Chiris, working alongside distinguished perfumers such as Vincent Roubert, Ernest Beaux, and Henri Alméras.
Subsequently, he joined Parfums d'Orsay, where in 1923 he crafted the notable scent Le Dandy. Although targeted towards men, this floral aldehyde fragrance gained popularity among younger female audiences. Following the passing of François Coty in 1934, Robert took on the position of Chief Perfumer at Coty. In 1936, he designed Muguet de Bois, honoring Coty’s custom of presenting lily of the valley to employees. During the Second World War, Robert moved to New York City and continued his work at Coty from 1940 through 1943.
In 1943, Henri Robert Inc. merged with the Albert Verley Company Inc., where he pursued further perfumery endeavors before eventually joining Chanel.
In 1952, Robert succeeded Ernest Beaux as Chief Perfumer at Les Parfums Chanel. His tenure included responsibility for both Chanel and Bourjois, during which he created enduring fragrances such as Pour Monsieur (1955), Chanel’s inaugural men’s scent, No. 19 (1970), and Cristalle Eau de Toilette (1974).
Family
Henri Robert was the uncle of perfumer Guy Robert (1926–2012) and the great-uncle of François Robert, also a noted perfumer.
Notable perfume creations
- 1925 – Le Dandy, Parfums D'Orsay
- 1936 – Le Muguet des Bois, Coty
- 1955 – Pour Monsieur, Chanel
- 1970 – No. 19, Chanel
- 1974 – Cristalle, Chanel