At this time of year in Paris, Peony Season is in full swing and most markets boast bucketloads of beautiful Peony stems in a myriad of beautiful colours, from soft pastel pinks to vibrant scarlet stems to delight the visual senses.
Although a relatively newcomer, Parisians patiently wait for what they refer to as the 'Parisian Peony Season'. The Peony, despite its aesthetic allure, is a relatively recent addition to the Parisian scene. Distinguished in the realm of botany; akin to the Japanese cherry blossom, which has become symbolic of the onset of Spring {le printemps}in Paris.
Originating from Asia, particularly Ancient China, during the 19th century, fervour for peonies swept across Europe. Many attribute this trend to Empress Joséphine. As we know, the Empress was a passionate admirer of exotic plants and animals, and it is believed she introduced peonies to her garden at the Château de Malmaison in the early 1800s.
Château de la Malmaison 12 Av. du Château de la Malmaison, 92500 Rueil-Malmaison, France
Empress Joséphine served as benefactor of the esteemed and now world renowned artist and botanist, Pierre-Joseph Redouté; often referred to as the 'Raphael of Flowers'. Redouté served as the official painter to Empress Joséphine during her residency at the Château de la Malmaison, and it was here Redouté created his captivating watercolour depictions of many flowers, roses and rare and exotic plants including Peonies.
Pierre-Joseph Redouté (1812-1817) Description des plantes rares cultivees a Malmaison et a Navarre
As we are far from the Paris Flower Markets {Marchés aux fleurs de Paris}, and are enamoured with the beauty of Peonies, with many more months to patiently await Peony season here in Australia, we have a beautiful selection of carefully curated items to bring the Peony scent and soft pink Peony colours alive in your Maison!
Crafted in Australia with premium oils and soy wax, each candle exudes elegance and sophistication, infusing your space with the luxurious scent of Peony Blush. The elegantly designed jar, featuring a matte white exterior and rose gold interior, is a visual masterpiece that embodies the essence of French opulence.
The French Riviera Scarf is an essential addition to any wardrobe. Designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, the French Riviera Scarf in Blush offers limitless versatility, and is designed to be worn throughout all four seasons and offer unique style to your wardrobe all year round.
Add elegance and sophistication to your candleholders with our stunning Rose Taper Candles. Add height to the dining table centrepiece or place amongst your favourite décor pieces to add visual interest.
If you are wanting to enjoy more visual Peony delights, then we recommend you pop over to Georgianna Lane, author and photographer, known worldwide for her romantic, light-infused images of flowers, gardens, and iconic travel destinations. Georgianna’s book ‘Peonies’ is one of our favourites.
Have you ever strolled through the flower market of Paris? The most famous, Le Marché aux fleurs is located on Place Louis Lépine on the Île de la Cité between the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle, and has been attracting avid gardeners, tourists and passersby since 1830.