Founded in 1916 in Barcelona, Spain, Myrurgia was a premier fragrance and cosmetics house that significantly influenced the Spanish perfume market through its integration of art, fashion branding, and innovation. The company established itself as a leading Spanish perfumer, particularly during the mid-20th century, and was known for its distinct Art Deco and modernist aesthetic.

History and Foundation

Establishment:
The firm was launched in 1916 by the Monegal family. Raymon Monegal, an industrialist, provided the capital and marketing expertise, while his son Esteve Monegal Prat (a sculptor and artist) became the face and creative visionary of the brand.

Naming:
The name “Myrurgia” is derived from the Greek words myrron (essence/myrrh) and urge (work/industry), meaning the “Art of Perfume” or “Perfume Industry”.

Artistic Influence:
Because of Esteve Monegal’s artistic background, the company’s packaging and advertising heavily reflected contemporary art movements like Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Surrealism. Bottles were often crafted from Bohemia glass with exquisite detailing.

Expansion:
During the 1930s, Myrurgia expanded internationally into South America and maintained a dominant market position in Spain through the 1950s and 1960s.

Key Products and Fragrances
Myrurgia’s portfolio included dozens of perfumes, many inspired by Spanish culture, flora, or exotic locations.

Maja (1921):
The brand’s most iconic fragrance, an oriental spicy scent inspired by the Spanish dancer Tórtola Valencia. Its packaging typically features a woman in a traditional black and red flamenco robe.

Maderas de Oriente (1918):
Known for its woody-spicy aroma and Art Deco bottle. Original editions even included a bundle of fine sandalwood sticks inside the bottle to enhance the scent.

Other Notable Early Fragrances:
Included Promesa (1917), Fantasio, Clavel de España, Suspiros de Granada, and Embrujo de Sevilla.

Modern Lines:
Later creations included the masculine Yacht Man series (Red, Blue, Metal), which transitioned the brand into different aromatic categories.
Acquisition and Later Years

Puig Acquisition:
In July 2000, Myrurgia was acquired by the Puig Group (then known as Puig Beauty & Fashion Group). At the time of acquisition, Myrurgia held licenses for brands such as Adolfo Dominguez, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, and Mango.

Cessation of Operations:
Following the acquisition, Myrurgia as a distinct corporate entity began to fade. The brand “disappeared” around 2007.

Legacy:
Some Myrurgia trademarks were sold or moved to other companies; for instance, the Maja brand was later taken over by the Mexican company Grisi. The original factory in Barcelona, an Art Deco landmark designed by Antoni Puig i Giralt, has since been converted into other facilities, including a hotel and sports center.