Aqua Allegoria Passiflora by Guerlain c2018

Aqua Allegoria Passiflora by Guerlain: launched in 2018. Created by Thierry Wasser.

Bouquet de Lord Elphinstone by Guerlain c1839

Launched in 1839, Bouquet de Lord Elphinstone by Guerlain carries a name that evokes both distinction and historical significance. The fragrance is named after John Elphinstone, the 13th Lord Elphinstone, a notable British colonial administrator who served as the Governor of Madras and later Bombay. His reputation for leadership during the Indian Mutiny and his high status made him a figure of considerable esteem.

The name "Bouquet de Lord Elphinstone" translates to “Bouquet of Lord Elphinstone” in English, combining the French word "Bouquet," meaning "bouquet" or "arrangement of flowers," with the title of a respected British nobleman. This choice of name suggests a fragrance that aims to capture the elegance and sophistication associated with Lord Elphinstone’s stature. It conveys an image of grandeur and refinement, positioning the perfume as a luxurious and distinguished choice.

The term "Bouquet de Lord Elphinstone" would evoke imagery of an opulent floral arrangement, possibly incorporating exotic and classic blooms that reflect both British nobility and colonial charm. The scent would likely be interpreted as a sophisticated blend of floral and perhaps slightly spicy or woody notes, designed to reflect the exotic and influential nature of its namesake.

Women of the 19th century, particularly those familiar with the prominent figures of the British Empire, would have related to Bouquet de Lord Elphinstone as a fragrance embodying the grace and high status of its namesake. The early 19th century was a period when perfumes often carried names associated with royalty or notable figures, enhancing their allure and prestige. As such, this fragrance would have been viewed as an elegant and exclusive choice, suitable for women who wished to express their sophistication and appreciation for refined scents. The time period was marked by a growing interest in exotic and luxurious goods, influenced by expanding global trade and colonial encounters, making a perfume named after a significant historical figure a particularly appealing and prestigious choice.

Bouquet Suave by Guerlain c1834

Introduced in 1834, Bouquet Suave by Pierre-François Pascal Guerlain is a fragrance that embodies sophistication and refined elegance. The name, which translates from French to "Elegant Bouquet," suggests a composition that is both graceful and sophisticated, designed to appeal to those with a taste for luxury and refinement.

The phrase Bouquet Suave evokes images of an opulent arrangement of flowers, carefully curated to create a sense of understated beauty and charm. The term "bouquet" indicates a carefully blended assortment of floral notes, while "suave" conveys smoothness and elegance, suggesting a scent that is polished and effortlessly sophisticated. Together, these words paint a picture of a fragrance that is not only luxurious but also elegantly subtle.

In terms of scent, Bouquet Suave would likely be interpreted as a rich, complex fragrance with a harmonious blend of floral and woody notes. Expect an ensemble of refined blossoms such as rose, violet, and iris, intertwined with warm undertones of sandalwood or musk. This composition would aim to deliver a scent experience that is both captivating and graceful, reflecting the polished sophistication implied by the name.

For women of the early 19th century, a perfume named Bouquet Suave would have resonated deeply with their desire for elegance and sophistication. In a time when personal grooming and presentation were of paramount importance, a fragrance that promised a suave and refined character would have been highly desirable. Bouquet Suave would have been seen as a way to express one's own elegance and taste, providing a subtle yet powerful statement of class and sophistication.

Bouquet de Cintra by Guerlain c1873

Bouquet de Cintra, launched by Guerlain in 1873, was a fragrance that elegantly captured the essence of a lush and verdant landscape. The name “Bouquet de Cintra” evokes the image of a rich and vibrant floral arrangement from Cintra, a picturesque city in Portugal renowned for its natural beauty. 

Cintra is celebrated for its citrus groves, abundant with fresh lemons, citrons, and oranges, as well as its fields adorned with a profusion of sweet-scented wildflowers. The name itself, translating to “Bouquet of Cintra,” conjures images of this fragrant paradise, where wild arbutus, chrysanthemums, and a variety of delicate blooms like ionopsidium, linaria, and narcissus flourish.

The scent of Bouquet de Cintra likely reflects this bountiful floral and citrus landscape. The fragrance would have been designed to capture the fresh, zesty aroma of the citrus groves, paired with the sweet, heady scents of wildflowers and the earthy undertones of the surrounding vegetation. The inclusion of elements such as laurel, acacia, palm, aloe, cork oak, and pine suggests a complex blend that combines bright citrus notes with the deeper, mossy green, and woody nuances of the Cintra landscape.

Perfumy Barbara

Perfumy Barbara Parfum pour le mouchoir et les appartements prepare par Guerlain, parfumeur distillat. 15 rue de la Paix, Paris.

Perfumy Barbara Perfume for the handkerchief and the apartments prepared by Guerlain, distillate perfumer. 15 rue de la Paix, Paris.

Marquise D'Auberive by Guerlain c1893

Marquise D'Auberive, launched by Guerlain around 1893, embodies a connection to the theatrical and social elite of the time. The name “Marquise D'Auberive” directly references a character from Émile Augier’s play Les Effrontées. This character was portrayed by the renowned actress Madame Jane Hading at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 1893, with subsequent performances by Cécile Sorel. The title “Marquise” signifies a noble rank, and “D'Auberive” lends a touch of sophistication and aristocratic flair, combining to evoke an image of high society and genteel elegance.

The name “Marquise D'Auberive” is French, and it translates to “Marquise of Auberive” in English. The term "Marquise" itself conjures images of regal elegance, refinement, and a certain historical gravitas. It evokes a sense of aristocratic charm and the poised sophistication of 19th-century high society. The word "D'Auberive" adds an air of exclusivity and nobility, suggesting an individual of high standing and grace. Together, these elements create an impression of a fragrance designed for someone of distinguished taste and elegance.

In terms of scent, "Marquise D'Auberive" would likely be interpreted as a perfume of classic refinement and opulence. It would conjure an olfactory portrait of a noblewoman's sophisticated presence—perhaps featuring rich, elegant floral notes blended with opulent spices and warm, comforting base notes. The scent might have been designed to reflect the character's grace and allure on stage, capturing the essence of nobility and high society in a bottle.

Women of the period, especially those attuned to the latest in fashion and theater, would have related to a perfume named "Marquise D'Auberive" with admiration and intrigue. The late 19th century was a time when the intersection of theater, aristocracy, and fashion created a vibrant cultural milieu. Guerlain’s choice of name would have resonated with women who admired the character’s portrayal and wished to embody a touch of that aristocratic elegance. The perfume would be seen as a mark of distinction and sophistication, offering a way for women to align themselves with the glamour and prestige associated with the Marquise.

Aqua Allegoria Ylang & Vanille c1999

Aqua Allegoria Ylang & Vanille: launched in 1999.

Neroli Outrenoir by Guerlain c2016

Neroli Outrenoir (for the L’Art & la Matière line)

Jadis by Guerlain c1883

Jadis by Guerlain: launched in 1883. Created by Aimé Guerlain. The name is a French word meaning "formerly", "once" or "the past".

Extrait de Caryophilus album by Guerlain c1848

Extrait de Caryophilus album by Guerlain: launched in 1848. This is the fragrant white carnation (dianthus) blossom.

Tubereuse by Guerlain c1833

Launched in 1833, Guerlain's Tubereuse captures the essence of one of the most opulent and exotic flowers of its time. The name Tubereuse is derived from the French word for "tuberose," a flowering plant renowned for its intensely fragrant blossoms. This choice of name underscores the perfume's focus on the tuberose flower, which was celebrated for its rich, creamy scent and its association with luxury and sensuality.

In French, Tubereuse translates directly to "tuberose," a flower that evokes a sense of sophistication and allure. The tuberose's fragrance is known for its heady, voluptuous aroma, which combines notes of sweetness and spice, making it both captivating and enigmatic. The word itself conjures images of lush, tropical gardens and evening strolls under the moonlight, where the tuberose's intoxicating scent fills the air. It suggests a fragrance that is bold, assertive, and deeply evocative, embodying the very essence of the flower's luxurious and seductive qualities.

For women in the early 19th century, the name Tubereuse would have been particularly resonant. During this period, the appreciation for exotic and rare scents was growing, as the Romantic era's fascination with nature and the allure of the unfamiliar were coming to the forefront. The tuberose, with its complex and heady scent profile, would have been seen as a symbol of elegance and refinement. A perfume named Tubereuse would likely be regarded as a statement of sophistication, appealing to those who sought to embrace the exotic and the opulent in their personal fragrance. The perfume would have been associated with high social standing and an appreciation for the finer things in life, reflecting a period of burgeoning interest in luxury and individuality in the realm of personal scent.

Dix Petales de Roses by Guerlain c1897

Dix Pétales de Roses by Guerlain, launched in 1897 and created by Jacques Guerlain, is a perfume whose name translates from French to "Ten Rose Petals." The choice of this name reflects a deliberate focus on delicacy and simplicity, emphasizing the elegance and timeless beauty of the rose. Roses have long symbolized romance, femininity, and grace, and by evoking the image of precisely ten rose petals, the fragrance suggests a careful, refined composition—a balance of beauty and restraint. The number "ten" adds a sense of completeness, as if capturing the perfect moment when a rose is in full bloom.

The name "Dix Pétales de Roses" conjures vivid imagery of soft, fragrant rose petals scattered in a garden or perhaps carefully placed in a delicate sachet. It evokes emotions of romance, tenderness, and serenity. The soft, sensual allure of rose petals is universally associated with love and beauty, and the phrase would instantly bring to mind the lush, velvety feel of rose petals and their intoxicating scent. The word "Dix" (ten) suggests an intentional, almost poetic precision, highlighting the artisanal care that would have gone into crafting the fragrance.

In terms of scent, Dix Pétales de Roses would be interpreted as a floral fragrance, likely dominated by rose notes but balanced by subtle undertones that enhance the freshness and purity of the roses themselves. Guerlain would have likely crafted this perfume to be soft and delicate, with a graceful sillage, capturing the fleeting beauty of rose petals as they fall. The scent would be light and ethereal, perfect for everyday wear, offering a refined yet romantic presence. Women of the time would have been drawn to the subtle elegance of the fragrance, appreciating its ability to capture the essence of a single flower with sophistication.

My Insolence by Guerlain c2007

My Insolence by Guerlain: launched in 2007. Created by Christophe Raynaud and Sylvaine Delacourte.

Double Extrait d'Hymenaea Nitida by Guerlain c1848

Double Extrait d'Hymenaea Nitida by Guerlain: launched in 1848. I was unable to identify this particular scientific name, it appears it might be the hymenaea tree of Brazil, the source for copal resin.