Eugène Fuchs and his legacy
Young businessman and art enthusiast Eugène Fuchs settled in Grasse around World War I with a vision to revolutionize the perfume industry. He wanted to create a new concept where fragrance products were sold directly to the many tourists who began flocking to the sunny Riviera. In 1926, he founded his own perfume factory and named it after local artist Jean Honoré Fragonard, known for his piquant 18th century love scenes.
Fragonard – still in family hands
Although the artist Fragonard ended his days poor and forgotten, his name lives on through Parfumerie Fragonard, which today is an internationally recognized brand. Still run by the Fuchs family, the company is now in the hands of the third generation, who continue the legacy with the same passion for quality and tradition.
Eugène Fuchs passed the company on to his son and brother-in-law, but it was his brother-in-law’s son, Jean-François Costa, who accelerated Fragonard’s development. He modernized the company and expanded it significantly, cementing Fragonard’s position as one of the most recognized perfume brands in the world.
Today, Jean-François’ three daughters are skillfully carrying on the family legacy. The perfumery is still located on Boulevard Fragonard, where visitors are more than welcome. Here you can explore the many fragrance samples or head up to the third floor, where Fragonard’s own perfume museum provides a fascinating insight into the history of perfume production – an experience that is definitely worth the trip.
On a guided tour i Fragonard perfume
Fragonard offers visitors a free guided tour of both workshops and laboratories by prior arrangement (tourisme@fragonard.com).
The perfume-making process at Fragonard – and in Grasse in general – is thoroughly explained, giving visitors a clear insight into the different types of fragrances. You’ll learn what separates perfume from eau de parfum and eau de toilette – because they are definitely not the same thing!
Finish your visit with a trip through the gift shop where you can find perfumes, soaps and great gift items.
By Peter Sejersen – updated 2025
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