Poudre aux Ballons c1918

In 1918, Guerlain launched “Poudre aux Ballons”, a face powder that was scented in various perfumes such as L'Heure Bleue.

The pretty powder box's lid featured a trio of angels suspended from a balloon, the sides of the box are decorated with a panoramic view of Paris in 1828 featuring the Arc de Triomphe and Guerlain's first perfumery on the Place de l'Etoile, while other hot air balloons are flying in the air above. Guerlain was established in 1828 and the powder's introduction marked the firm's 100th anniversary. The polychromed paper covered cardboard box measures 2.8" diameter x 2.1" tall.

Guerlain used this lovely imagery as a tribute to a hot air balloon that was used as the first airmail service when the Prussians besieged Paris in 1870.  Between September 23, 1870 and January 28, 1871, a total of 67 hot air balloons left Paris sending news and requests for assistance.

Jardins de Bagatelle by Guerlain c1982

Jardins de Bagatelle, launched in 1982 by Jean-Paul Guerlain, captures the essence of a beloved Parisian garden in both name and spirit. The fragrance takes its name from the Bagatelle Gardens, nestled within the Bois de Boulogne. These gardens trace their origins to 1775, when the Comte d'Artois, the brother of King Louis XVI, decided to construct a grand retreat after a playful wager with his sister-in-law, Marie Antoinette. Within just 64 days, the Château de Bagatelle rose, symbolizing the aristocratic pleasure of creating beauty on a whim. Over time, the gardens have become famous, not only for the elegant rose blossoms that fill the air with their intoxicating scent, but also as a romantic meeting place for lovers. Today, Jardins de Bagatelle still evokes the charm of that enchanting spot.

The word "Bagatelle" is French, and it means "a thing created for pleasure" or "a trifle." The name conveys a light-hearted sense of indulgence, something crafted not out of necessity but out of a desire to bring joy and delight. Pronounced [bar-gah-TEL], it rolls off the tongue with the same effortless grace as the gardens that inspired it.

The name Jardins de Bagatelle conjures vivid images of strolling through verdant pathways, surrounded by a sea of fragrant blooms. The air would be filled with the rich, heady scent of roses, mingling with fresh green notes of the park's vibrant flora. The word "Bagatelle" implies something light and playful, yet undeniably luxurious, echoing the carefree afternoons spent in the gardens of this historic estate. In scent, Jardins de Bagatelle would evoke a symphony of floral exuberance, a place where the elegance of nature is celebrated in every bloom. Women of the time would have interpreted this fragrance as a reflection of their own aspirations for beauty, pleasure, and a life filled with graceful indulgences.

The fragrance was launched at a time when women’s lives were expanding beyond traditional roles, with the 1980s representing a period of empowerment, yet also a return to feminine elegance and glamour. A perfume called Jardins de Bagatelle would resonate with women of the time who longed to balance sophistication with a sense of freedom and whimsy. The gardens themselves evoke a world of quiet luxury, where one could escape the pressures of modern life and lose oneself in the simple pleasure of a flower’s scent, much like wearing a fragrance to add a touch of joy to daily existence.

Flacon Bouchon Fleurs (Floral Stopper) c1914-1950

Flacon Bouchon Fleurs (Floral Stopper) c1914-1950


Flacon created by Pochet & du Courval to hold extraits of Mi Mai and Jasmiralda.

• 83cc/83ml/2.81 oz - 10,5cm/4.13" (1912-1951)
• 125cc/125ml/4.2 oz - 12cm/4.72" (1912-1951)
• 250cc/250ml/8.4 oz - (1912-1951)
• 500cc/500ml/16.9 oz - 18,3cm/7.2" (1912-1951)
• 1 liter/1000ml - 22,3cm/8.78" (1912-1951)

Mi-Mai

two sizes used for Jasmiralda

Mi-Mai, notice teh different label design, photo from worthpoint

Jasmiralda, photo by shakko