ON EBAY! Rue de la Paix Parfum

Here are several bottles of the rare perfume Rue de la Paix by Guerlain listed on ebay this week. Click HERE to see ebay listing Click HERE to see ebay listing #2 Click HERE to see ebay listing #3

Rue de la Paix: Created by Jacques Guerlain in 1908. Possibly only in USA in 1922.

What does it smell like? It is classified as a soft floral fragrance for women.

• Top notes: bergamot, orange blossom
• Middle notes: jasmine, rose, peach, lilac, carnation
• Base notes: sandalwood, orris, ambergris, musk

Still available for sale in 1955. Discontinued (date unknown)

ON EBAY!! Vintage 1940s A Travers Champs in Baccarat Quadrilobe Flacon with Box

ON EBAY!! Vintage 1940s A Travers Champs in Baccarat Quadrilobe Flacon with Box. This is a rare find and still has perfume inside.

Vintage A Travers Champs Parfum Extrait Flacon

ON EBAY! Vintage 2.7 oz Shalimar Parfum Extrait Bottle

Measuring approx. 6 3/8” tall x 4 1/4” wide x 2” deep (at the top), this is a huge vintage bottle of Shalimar perfume.

Vintage Shalimar 2.7 oz Parfum Extrait Flacon

ON EBAY! - L'Heure Bleue Wartime Bottle - Scarce

On eBay this week - Vintage Guerlain Perfume Bottle L' Heure Bleue, 80 CC War Time Edition 1938-1945. Bottle is 4 1/4" in height and 2 1/2" in width at largest point.  Bottle on base has paper label "80 CC".

L'Heure Bleue Wartime Flacon

Poudre de Cygne

Poudre pour adoucir et rafraichir la peau dite duvet de Cygne (Swan's down powder),  a face powder created for the usage of blonde hired women.

Gouttes Parfumées - Scented Pocket Drops

Guerlain's Gouttes Parfumées (Scented Pocket Drops) were small, pocket sized glass tubes holding perfume. The cylindrical vials were topped by ground glass ball stoppers. These bottles are very rare and can be very hard to find. They most likely date to around 1860s-1880s.

Some perfumes that could be found: Spring Flowers, Fleurs de Serre, Frangipane, and more.

Creme Patti by Guerlain

Creme Patti by Guerlain was a face cream used to fade age spots or freckles and to whiten the complexion. It was sold in porcelain jars. The cream was named after the famous singer Miss Adelina Patti.

You can read more about Madame Patti's Cold Cream here.

Public Opinion, Volume 3, 1887:

"It is said that Mme Patti has not washed her face for years. She believes that the use of water upon the face brings wrinkles and only cold cream or what is known as the bath of Isis composed rose water and glycerine. French women who are enameled never allow water to touch their face shoulders or arms. They wipe them dry with a towel every morning and then with a soft small sponge rub on an ointment that is prepared for the purpose rubbing it out again with square of very fine white flannel."

The Pall Mall Budget: Being a Weekly Collection of Articles, 1887:

"Does Mdme Patti wash her Face? Is the New York paper which alleged that Mdme Patti never washed her face with soap but used cold cream instead for fear of wrinkles is a mendacious print. We have seen the original of the famous letter which the great prima donna addressed to the Messrs Pears It runs in this wise I have found Pears soap matchless for the hands and ramplexz on We might have overlooked the fact had not the alert soap makers addressed the following letter to us We observe in your issue of the 1st inst your query Is Mdme Patti s face never washed? This question we can answer emphatically authoritatively and affirmatively Mdme Patti is especially particular in respect of her choice of toilet soap and we have for years supplied her. In order that you may publicly deny the truth of the statement in the American paragraph that Mdme Patti's face is unacquainted with soap we enclose herewith for your perusal an autograph letter from Mdme Patti respecting the advantages resulting to her complexion from the use of a soap which we need not particularize. We know at any rate that Messrs Pears send the soap whatever becomes of it."

Town Topics, the Journal of Society, 1893:

"To keep your powder on, there is one famous article from Guerlain's, called "Creme Patti." The Comtesse de B. always uses it, and she is certainly the best-arranged woman in France. You put it on all over your face and rub it well in."

Bouquet de Jenny Lind by Guerlain c1848

Bouquet de Jenny Lind by Guerlain, introduced in 1848, was a tribute to the renowned Swedish opera singer Jenny Lind, affectionately known as the "Swedish Nightingale." Jenny Lind gained international acclaim for her exceptional vocal talent and captivating stage presence, earning her a place in the annals of musical history. Her fame and reputation made her a fitting muse for a perfume, as her name symbolized grace, beauty, and a soaring artistry that resonated across Europe.

The name "Bouquet de Jenny Lind" translates from French to "Bouquet of Jenny Lind." This title evokes a sense of elegance and refinement, conjuring images of a lavish floral arrangement dedicated to the celebrated singer. The term "bouquet" implies a carefully curated selection of flowers, reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating a perfume that embodies the sophistication and charm of its namesake. The addition of "Jenny Lind" personalizes the fragrance, linking it to a figure synonymous with grace and vocal excellence.

In scent, "Bouquet de Jenny Lind" would likely be interpreted as a complex and harmonious floral composition. The fragrance may aim to capture the delicate yet powerful essence of Lind's performances, offering a bouquet that is both rich and nuanced. Women of the time would have associated the perfume with the same qualities that made Jenny Lind famous—elegance, refinement, and a touch of dramatic allure. The name would evoke a sense of high society and cultural sophistication, aligning the wearer with the grandeur and distinction of the opera singer herself.

The mid-19th century was a period of rich experimentation and refinement in perfumery. When "Bouquet de Jenny Lind" was launched, the fragrance industry was becoming more sophisticated, with an increasing emphasis on creating unique and memorable compositions. Guerlain's choice to name the perfume after Jenny Lind was a nod to the growing trend of honoring prominent cultural figures through fragrance, a trend exemplified by Eugène Rimmel's own dedication to the singer just a year earlier. While Guerlain's offering was part of a broader movement of personalized and high-quality perfumes, its connection to a celebrated figure of the time added an extra layer of prestige and appeal, setting it apart from other offerings on the market.

Habit Rouge Sport c2009

Habit Rouge Sport by Guerlain: launched in spring of 2009.

 Habit Rouge Sport will be available from March 2009 as EDT.






So what does it smell like? It is classified as an aromatic citrus fragrance for men.

• Top notes: lime, bitter orange, pink pepper
• Middle notes: bamboo, rose, jasmine, patchouli
• Base notes: vanilla, leather, woody notes, musk

 Habit Rouge Sport is available as an eau de toilette.


Discontinued in 2015.

RSS Feed Widget

International Perfume Bottle Association's 25th Anniversary - Limited Edition Shalimar

Special edition created exclusively for the International Perfume Bottle Association's 25th Anniversary. Familiar white bee bottle adorned with a gilded necklace with lapis cabochon pendants wrapped around the neck. A shiny gold foil label commemorates the club's success. This was a limited piece of only 20 examples given to members. This edition is nearly identical to the 2012 limited edition collector's bottle called the Imperial Bijoux de Shalimar, which also sported the lapis pendants.

The International Perfume Bottle Association (IPBA) is an organization of collectors of perfume bottles and related fragrance items covering all time periods from antiquity to the present. It is a 501c3 nonprofit corporation. It is run by an elected Board of Directors, who are all volunteers. The purpose of the IPBA is to provide information about all aspects of this collecting field including identification, uses, history, and manufacture, and to promote fellowship among members. The IPBA represents education, collecting and camaraderie. All members, whether beginners or experienced collectors, are greatly welcome.

IPBA member collectors and dealers from the U.S. and overseas embrace all aspects of this wonderful art form—early American and European, Victorian, French and American Commercials, Minis, Art Nouveau and Art Deco atomizers, Czechoslovakian, Art Glass, Novelties, and others. In addition, related categories of vanity items (such as powder compacts, lipsticks, and ladies purses) are included.

Please click here for more information.

Imperial Bijoux de Shalimar c2012

For the 160th anniversary of the Bon Marche Rive Gauche department store,  Guerlain created a limited edition of Shalimar called "The Imperial Bijoux de Shalimar."

Shalimar Eau de Parfum is housed inside of a 250ml white bee flacon that is decorated by a necklace suggestive of the jewelry worn by Indian princesses. The brass necklace, created by Sylvia Toledano, features two lapis lazuli pendants. Lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone coming from India and is a deep, cobalt blue color with flecks of gold.

The limited edition flacon retailed for 450 euros.

Flacon Montre (Watch Bottle) c1936-1999

Flacon Montre (Watch) c1936 - 1999

Aqua Allegoria Teazzurra c2015

Aqua Allegoria Teazzurra by Guerlain: launched in 2015. Created by Thierry Wasser. This limited edition Aqua Allegoria edition is available only at select duty free shops as a travel retail exclusive.

Habit Rouge L'Eau c2011

Habit Rouge L'Eau by Guerlain: launched in 2011. Created by Thierry Wasser.

So what does it smell like? It is classified as an oriental fragrance for men.

• Top notes: bitter orange, green notes
• Middle notes: jasmine
• Base notes: vanilla, hazelnut, patchouli

It is available in eau de toilette concentration.

RSS Feed Widget

Shalimar - Edition Charms c2010

Shalimar Edition Charms 75ml eau de parfum and Eau de Shalimar Edition Charms 75ml eau de toilette are two limited edition collector's flacons holding the usual juices and were launched in 2010.

"The desire to experience sensuality, femininity, mystery...to succumb to SHALIMAR ÉDITION CHARMS, whose bottle decorated with Oriental motifs, evokes the splendours of India. Slender arabesques unfurl their delicate volutes over the bottle and box. They are inspired by the motifs on the rings worn by Indian women on every occasion, along with the embroidery admired on the shimmering colours of ceremonial saris. A blue silk thread is wound around the neck of the bottle, holding the famous golden "signet" engraved with the double G."

RSS Feed Widget

Fleurs de Shalimar - Collector Flacons c2009

Fleurs de Shalimar 75ml eau de parfum and Eau de Shalimar Fleur 75ml eau de toilette, are two limited edition bottles for collectors.

Shalimar Ode de la Vanille c2010

Shalimar Ode de la Vanille: launched in 2010 and created by Thierry Wasser as a limited edition Shalimar flanker scent.

Showcasing Shalimar's iconic base note, Ode de la Vanille is comprised up of two varietal essences, tienture de vanille from Mayotte, and Absolute de Vanille from Madagascar.

Vintage 1950s Guerlain Advertising Mirror

From a Hotel Rambouillet perfume auction

"Mirror titled "Parfumerie Guerlain SM provider Empress" and "Paris 15 Rue de la Paix in London 23 Old Bond Street" and "Printer E MANDOUCE 13 Rue Buffault" decorated weapons of the Second Empire. According to our research this mirror has been reproduced from an old advertising and offered a few custodians of international Guerlain perfumer. Wooden frame Dimensions: 39 x 54 cm"

L'Heure Bleue Anniversary Edition Box Set c2012

Limited edition box set featuring three new interpretations of L'Heure Bleue by Thierry Wasser, alongside a bottle of the regular Parfum. The blue velvet presentation case is decorated with silver pearl embroidery spelling the Guerlain name, an artwork by Lesage Atelier de Broderie. All four bottles are the 30 ml size.


The new interpretations are meant to symbolize the three parts of a day and night.

• Morning - L’Aurore (Eau de Toilette)
• Midday - Le Zénith (Eau de Parfum) 
• Midnight - Le Crépuscule (Parfum)

They are composed with orange blossom, orris, heliotrope, white musk and gourmand notes, clearly inspired by the original classic but with a luminous and modern twist. The boxed set retails for 3000 €. The Eau de Parfum version will come out as standard-priced Parisienne edition in 2013.

The three interpretations labels show clock hands, each one poised at the different times of the day.

Idylle Duet Jasmin-Lilas by Guerlain c2012

Idylle Duet Jasmin-Lilas by Guerlain: launched in 2012. Created as a limited edition by Thierry Wasser.

Bouquet de la Duchesse Bedford by Guerlain c1840

Bouquet de la Duchesse Bedford by Guerlain: launched in 1840. Created by Pierre-François Pascal Guerlain for Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bedford. She was a lifelong friend of Queen Victoria, whom she served as a Lady of the Bedchamber between 1837 and 1841.

La Petite Robe Noire Eau Fraiche - Ma Nouvelle Robe Pétales by Guerlain c2015

La Petite Robe Noire Eau Fraiche (Ma Robe Pétales) by Guerlain: launched on March 2015. Created by Thierry Wasser as a flanker scent to the successful La Petite Robe Noire fragrance. This information was first revealed at a press party in Moscow, held at the Bolshoi theatre. Our friend Monsieur Guerlain first reported this information.

Fleurs de Serre by Guerlain c1878

Fleurs de Serre by Guerlain, launched around 1878, carries a name that directly translates to "Hothouse Flowers." This evocative title conjures up imagery of lush, exotic blooms thriving in the controlled warmth of glass conservatories. During the 19th century, hothouses—also known as orangeries or greenhouses—were symbols of prestige, luxury, and a deep fascination with nature. They allowed wealthy individuals to cultivate rare and delicate flowers from tropical climates, which would otherwise be impossible to grow in European environments. Guerlain’s choice of the name "Fleurs de Serre" reflects this admiration for these refined, carefully tended blooms, capturing the essence of indulgence and exclusivity.

The name itself, Fleurs de Serre, evokes an aura of opulence and fragility. The phrase stirs thoughts of flowers that are nurtured with utmost care—delicate petals protected from the harshness of the outside world. The scent of hothouse flowers would have been luxurious, heavy, and exotic, a feast for the senses. This fragrance would have been interpreted as a tribute to the lush, vibrant blooms of these artificial paradises, evoking emotions of serenity, beauty, and refined elegance. The image of a hothouse filled with vibrant, fragrant blossoms, their sweet and heady aromas trapped in a warm, humid environment, comes to mind. It is a scent of flowers that are both tender and resilient, thriving in an environment specifically designed for them to flourish.

During the late 19th century, hothouses were not only an aristocratic symbol of wealth and leisure but also a reflection of society's increasing interest in botany, science, and global exploration. People of this era were fascinated by the exotic and the rare, and perfumes were often inspired by nature’s most precious gifts. For men and women of the time, a fragrance called "Fleurs de Serre" would have felt like an invitation to experience the rare and delicate beauty of the world’s most coveted flowers. The scent would have evoked memories of visits to grand estates, where one could walk among towering hothouses filled with blooming orchids, jasmine, roses, and orange blossoms, each flower cultivated to perfection.

Shalimar - Nuit des Indes - Exceptional Limited Edition Collector's Flacon 2014

Shalimar - Exceptional Limited Edition Collector's Flacon for Christmas 2014 is given the name of Guerlain Shalimar Indian Nights by Maison Gripoix.

Le Bolshoi - Black Swan by Guerlain c2014

Le Bolshoi - Black Swan by Guerlain: launched in 2014. This year's edition is the third that Guerlain has created for the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. The flacon is the familiar quadrilobe shape, topped with the atomizer. However, we are told that the perfume contained therein will be different than the Les Secrets de Sophie perfume that was housed in the two previous editions. Monsieur Guerlain has mentioned that during the press party, it was revealed that the perfume will have a "woody, milky, fresh and sparkling" note and based on a prominent sandalwood note.

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral woody musk fragrance for women.

• Top notes: milky accord, mandarin, lemon and bergamot
• Middle notes: lily of the valley, violet, rose and jasmine
• Base notes: white musk, vanilla, sandalwood and cedar

The perfume is only available limited quantities in Moscow and retails for 375 € for 60ml.

La Malle de Voyage - 160 Year Anniversary of the Bee Bottle c2013

La Malle de Voyage - was one of several special presentations created in 2013 to mark the 160th anniversary of the creation of the bee bottle, known as the Abeille flacon.

Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” of the Institut National des Métiers d’Art of France. Giving them full artistic freedom to create whatever they could envision to centre around a one litre bee bottle. The resulting incarnations are truly the epitome of one of a kind masterpieces.

The unique bottles were on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and were showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA). You can read more about the INMA online.

Serge Amoruso, Maître d’art – Class of 2010. This skilled leather craftsman and designer is a prominent specialist of rare and precious hides, who gained experience at Hermès in the training of the finest historical leather-making techniques. Using this traditional knowledge, he has since focused his talent on making pieces as whimsical as they are ostentatious, such as an alligator-lined scooter or genuinely exclusive tailor-made creations.

From Guerlain:

“La Malle de Voyage” (“The Travel Trunk”) 

An artistic trunk presented in two identical pieces, like a lightning-shaped split or a single-use broken mould. Its covering features the rarest and noblest materials: red Morocco leather and parchment stamped with the imprint of the bottle on the interior, midnight blue shagreen and, in contrast, carbon fibre on the exterior. An unusual combination that transforms this work into a surprising and contemporary sculpture, whose highlight is a piece of meteorite that opens the doors of time.

Cananga Blanc by Guerlain c1879

Cananga Blanc by Guerlain, launched in 1879, is a name that evokes both exotic allure and pristine elegance. The term "Cananga Blanc" combines French with a touch of botanical specificity. "Cananga" refers to the scientific name for the ylang-ylang tree, while "Blanc" means "white" in French. Thus, "Cananga Blanc" translates to "White Cananga," directly referencing the white flowers of the ylang-ylang tree.

The name "Cananga Blanc" conjures images of delicate, pristine white blossoms, suggesting a fragrance imbued with purity and sophistication. The word "Cananga" itself points to the exotic origins of the ylang-ylang flower, which grows on a tree native to tropical regions. Paired with "Blanc," it evokes an image of luxurious white petals, hinting at a scent that is both refined and evocative of exotic landscapes.

In scent, "Cananga Blanc" would be interpreted as a sophisticated, floral fragrance characterized by the rich, sweet, and slightly spicy aroma of ylang-ylang. Ylang-ylang is known for its intense floral scent, which is both exotic and sensual, with hints of creaminess and spice. This would lend the perfume a lush and opulent character, making it a statement of elegance and allure.

Women of the late 19th century would have perceived "Cananga Blanc" as an expression of high society and refined taste. During this period, the use of exotic ingredients in perfumery was a mark of sophistication, and ylang-ylang, with its distinctive and luxurious scent, would have been highly valued. The name would appeal to those seeking to project an image of both elegance and worldly sophistication.

Guerlain's 2014 Holiday Beauty Collection

As you may have read on other blogs, this year Guerlain has brought back it's gorgeous gilded bowtie flacon for usage in it's limited edition shimmer powder for their luxurious 2014 Holiday Beauty Collection named A Night at the Opera. Included in this theme are several other limited edition products bearing the iconic Coque D'Or bow tie symbol.

'Coque d'Or' Iridescent Perfumed Powder (Limited Edition)

Graceful and feather-light, Guerlain Coque d'Or Iridescent Perfumed Powder is a subtle glitter for body and hair. For the first time since its creation, Guerlain has reproduced the original bottle and reinterpreted it in gold-lacquered glass. With a mere press of the bulb, the twirling, airy powder covers the hair and décolleté in a delicate sparkling veil. It's subtly scented with Coque d'Or's legendary chypre notes, recomposed in an exclusive variation.


Notes: bergamot, lavender, iris, rose and patchouli.

'Meteorites' Perles d'Etoile (Limited Edition)

Guerlain Meteorites Perles d'Etoile are light-revealing pearls of powder. The legendary pearls are available in a blend of six light and radiant tones specially designed to enhance your complexion after nightfall under the lights of evening. Its fragrant note of violet adds a light scent while a shimmering finish illuminates your complexion. It comes in a goldtone container with the famous bow inspired by Coque d'Or sculpted on the lid.





'Rouge G de Guerlain - 820 Rouge Parade' Jewel Lipstick Compact (Limited Edition)


Rouge G de Guerlain 820 Rouge Parade is a pure, French-style satin-finish bright red shade for gala evenings—luminous and distinctively elegant. Ready to go out, the exceptional lip color is adorned in red lacquer set off with a golden charm and mechanism. It's the shade worn by Natalia Vodianova in the campaign visual, attracting every eye from her balcony.

'A Night at the Opera' Eyeshadow Duo

Guerlain’s Duo Eyeshadow palettes feature two stunning colors that work off each other to give your eyes a gorgeous glow. One hue is a pure matte and the other is a luminous veil with a glittering or metallic finish. Simply glide on the matte then layer the veil on top, or wear one at a time to create a look that’s yours alone.













'Petrouchka' Eye & Blush Palette (Limited Edition)

Petrouchka Eye and Blush Palette by Guerlain is filled with makeup essentials for your eyes and cheeks cleverly combined in a golden case adorned with a flat bow in red fabric, which can easily be transformed into a bracelet or hair tie. The limited-edition palette is filled with sophisticated hues, including five finely iridescent eyeshadow shades and four matte or pearlescent blushes.

















'A Night at the Opera - Maxi Shine' Gloss d'Enfer Lip Gloss

Maxi Shine Gloss d'Enfer guarantees lips a shimmering, radiant and plumping finish. Maxi Shine's oil composition creates a moisturizing barrier to ensure an intense softness. Additionally, each shade presents varying degrees of coverage and pigment intensity. The perfect partner for a desirable, appealing smile, Maxi Shine offers tailor-made effects for beautifully enhanced lips

'A Night at the Opera' Nail Lacquer

Guerlain's newest nail lacquers are indispensable allies for accomplished femininity. The ultra-vibrant shades incorporate adhesive resins to offer a perfectly even sheen that lasts for days. Using each shade's extra-flat and widened brush, the easy-to-use formula imparts a shiny, daring and immaculate finish.

'Shalimar' Eau de Parfum Set

To celebrate the season, Guerlain invites you into its fairy universe to discover an enchanted Christmas tree, where every decoration is a wink to the House symbols.

Inspired by the passionate love story between an emperor and an Indian princess, Shalimar, which means “temple of love” in Sanskrit, symbolizes the promise of eternal love forevermore. It’s a fragrance of desire. With its smoldering and slightly impertinent character, the star oriental fragrance in perfumery embodies skin-caressing sensuality with a hint of the forbidden.
Set includes:
- Eau de Parfum (1.7 oz.)
- Eau de Parfum Purse Spray (0.5 oz.)

Lucite Perfume Tester Rack c1950s-1960s

This is a lucite tester rack which held five Guerlain fragrances that sat on a counter in a department store. It dates to the 1950s-1960s and has a simple futuristic look to it. It measures 27.9cm long.

La Ruche Imperiale - 160 Year Anniversary of the Bee Bottle c2013

La Ruche Impériale- was one of several special presentations created in 2013 to mark the 160th anniversary of the creation of the bee bottle, known as the Abeille flacon.

Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” of the Institut National des Métiers d’Art of France. Giving them full artistic freedom to create whatever they could envision to centre around a one litre bee bottle. The resulting incarnations are truly the epitome of one of a kind masterpieces.


The unique bottles were on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and were showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA). You can read more about the INMA online.

Laurent Nogues, Maître d’art – Class of 2011. This founder of the Creanog studio is the preeminent artist in the sector of embossing, hot-stamping and insets on paper. He fabricates labels for affluent brands and highly respected institutions.

From Guerlain:

“La Ruche Impériale” (“The Imperial Hive”) 

A graphic art version of the honeycombs that make up the hive. This precious honeycomb-shaped case is just waiting to be opened and unfolded to reveal the innovation and splendour of paper transformed through embossing. It is composed of six panels lined with white paper embossed with a tone-on-tone honeycomb motif. On closer view, one notices an optical illusion on the central stamp that represents the legendary bottle. The development of specific tools and a very singular embossing technique allow for a complex, tailor-made geometry for endless effects of light with striking definition.

La Cage aux Oiseaux et aux Abeilles - 160 Year Anniversary of the Bee Bottle c2013

La Cage aux Oiseaux et aux Abeilles - was one of several special presentations created in 2013 to mark the 160th anniversary of the creation of the bee bottle, known as the Abeille flacon.

Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” of the Institut National des Métiers d’Art of France. Giving them full artistic freedom to create whatever they could envision to centre around a one litre bee bottle. The resulting incarnations are truly the epitome of one of a kind masterpieces.


The unique bottles were on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and were showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA). You can read more about the INMA online.

 Nelly Saunier, Maître d’art – Class of 2008. This distinguished plumassier, takes her experience of preparing and working with ornamental plumes and feathers to new highs, with a masterful sense of color and volume. 

From Guerlain:

“La Cage aux Oiseaux et aux Abeilles” (“The Bird and Bee Cage”) 

Taking up the form of the iconic bottle, a golden structure reveals delicate feather marquetry that embraces the chiselled metal. The feather decoration fitted into the extremely precise cut-outs is stunning. With an effect of colours and contrasts, matt and iridescent variations between light and dark areas, the effect is mesmerising. Through the openwork dome, one can glimpse a silky, feathery nest on which the Bee bottle is perched, like a bird ready to take flight into lyricism.

Bouquet du la Sierra Morena by Guerlain c1834

Bouquet du la Sierra Morena by Guerlain, launched in 1834, carries a name that is as evocative as the landscape that inspired it. The name "Bouquet du la Sierra Morena" is French, translating to "Bouquet of the Sierra Morena," a reference to the rugged and majestic mountain range in southern Spain. The name would have instantly conjured images of the untamed, dramatic beauty of the Sierra Morena, a place where the wild and the sublime meet. Guerlain, inspired by his journey through these mountains toward Almería, chose this name to capture the essence of the Spanish landscape and the spirit of adventure that it embodies. The fragrance was likely created with the Spanish market in mind, a nod to the cultural and natural richness of the region.

The phrase "Bouquet du la Sierra Morena" evokes powerful images of a wild, mountainous terrain, where the air is filled with the scent of aromatic herbs, wildflowers, and the earth itself. It suggests a fragrance that is both untamed and refined, a blend of natural elements that capture the raw beauty of the Sierra Morena. The name would have stirred emotions of wanderlust, romance, and the allure of the exotic, evoking a sense of adventure and discovery. In terms of scent, "Bouquet du la Sierra Morena" would likely be interpreted as a fragrance that blends earthy, herbaceous notes with the floral and woody essences found in the Spanish landscape, perhaps with hints of sun-warmed citrus or the resinous scent of the forest.

Women of the early 19th century would have been captivated by a perfume named "Bouquet du la Sierra Morena." During this period, Spain was seen as a land of passion, mystery, and exotic allure. A fragrance that drew its inspiration from such a place would have been perceived as both bold and romantic, appealing to women who wished to embody the fiery spirit and elegance associated with Spanish culture. The name would have resonated with the era's fascination with travel, exploration, and the distant, unknown corners of the world. Wearing "Bouquet du la Sierra Morena" would have allowed women to carry a piece of this exotic landscape with them, a fragrant reminder of a land filled with passion, beauty, and wild nature.

Le Trouble d’Eugénie - 160 Year Anniversary of the Bee Bottle c2013

Le Trouble d’Eugénie- was one of several special presentations created in 2013 to mark the 160th anniversary of the creation of the bee bottle, known as the Abeille flacon.

Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” of the Institut National des Métiers d’Art of France. Giving them full artistic freedom to create whatever they could envision to centre around a one litre bee bottle. The resulting incarnations are truly the epitome of one of a kind masterpieces.

The unique bottles were on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and were showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA). You can read more about the INMA online.

Emmanuel Barrois, Maître d’art – Class of 2010. This talented glass architect works on varied projects, from the monumental to the smaller-scaled creations, always trying to exceed the most limited of possibilities. These adept glassmaking concepts, backed by an extreme technical, prospective and futuristic vision, range from the Beijing Opera to the next canopy of the future Forum des Halles in Paris, measuring almost 30,000 square metres.

“Le Trouble d’Eugénie” (“Eugénie’s Confusion”) 

“Eugénie will be crowned Empress in just a matter of hours. As she is getting ready, the bottle drops. The fragrance spills out in absolute shapes. She loses herself in the dark reflections of this sparkling pool. Blood pounds through her temples. She sees something. It’s time. She is caught in a breath…” The transparent bottle has been knocked over on an opaque black glass tray. Splashes of fragrance in singular and crystal-clear shapes stand out against the unfathomable base. This enigmatic mise en abîme is both illusion and realism. Through this piece, a drama takes form, echoing the destiny of the Empress Eugénie. Movement comes face to face with suspended time."

L’Envolée - 160 Year Anniversary of the Bee Bottle c2013

L’Envolée - was one of several special presentations created in 2013 to mark the 160th anniversary of the creation of the bee bottle, known as the Abeille flacon.

Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” of the Institut National des Métiers d’Art of France. Giving them full artistic freedom to create whatever they could envision to centre around a one litre bee bottle. The resulting incarnations are truly the epitome of one of a kind masterpieces.

The unique bottles were on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and were showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA). You can read more about the INMA online.

Etienne Rayssac, Maître d’art – Class of 2010. This accomplished woodcarver and ornamental craftsman, at first, sketches his inventive designs and then fabricates prototypes in plaster before carving the final sculpture. His proficiency in woodworking has made him well respected and sought after to create decorative elements, for use on buildings classified as historical monuments and contemporary pieces alike.

From Guerlain:

“L’Envolée” (“The Flight”) 

Draped pale sycamore wood partially envelops the levitating Bee bottle, making it evanescent. The work suggests incredible energy and the effect of curves and dips perfectly captures the light. Only hand craftsmanship with special chisels and scrapers makes it possible to alternate the flow of volumes and the sharpness of edges. The exterior design is delicately sculpted and echoes the intensity of the bottle and the richness of its intrinsic ornamentation.

Santal Royal by Guerlain c2014

Santal Royal by Guerlain: launched in 2014. According to the October issue of the Harrod's magazine, the fragrance was created to herald the opening of the newly finished Salon de Parfums at the upscale Harrod's department store in London on Oct 16, 2014.

Bouquet de L'Imperatrice Eugenie by Guerlain c1843

Bouquet de L'Impératrice Eugénie by Guerlain, launched in 1853, was named in honor of Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. The choice of name reflects both admiration and an association with imperial elegance, power, and prestige. By attaching the Empress's name to the fragrance, Pierre-François Pascal Guerlain aligned his creation with royalty, conveying the notion of a scent fit for nobility. In naming the perfume "Bouquet de L'Impératrice Eugénie", Guerlain was not only appealing to the fascination with the imperial court but also emphasizing the refined femininity and grace of Eugénie herself. This was a rebranding of an earlier perfume, Bouquet de L'Imperatrice from around 1844.

The phrase "Bouquet de L'Impératrice Eugénie" conjures images of lush floral arrangements befitting an empress’s royal presence—delicate yet opulent. The word "bouquet" evokes a gathering of the finest, most exquisite flowers, arranged with care and elegance. When paired with the name "L'Impératrice Eugénie," the perfume’s title suggests regal luxury, sophistication, and timeless beauty. This blend of words might stir emotions of admiration, awe, and reverence for the French court and its luxurious lifestyle. The fragrance, by its very name, promises to embody the grandeur of the Second Empire and the refinement of the Empress herself.

Interpreted in scent, "Bouquet de L'Impératrice Eugénie" would likely represent a harmonious blend of soft, elegant florals—perhaps rich with roses, jasmine, or orange blossom—interwoven with warmer, sensual animalic or amber notes. The fragrance would be designed to project both delicacy and strength, reflecting the Empress's grace and commanding presence. It would feel comforting yet stately, delicate but enduring, much like Eugénie’s public image. For both men and women of the era, a fragrance with such a prestigious name would not only be aspirational but also a way of connecting to the glamorous world of the imperial court.

The time period in which this perfume was launched, the mid-19th century, was marked by an immense interest in the French aristocracy, luxury, and the lavish lifestyle of the imperial family. Napoleon III and Eugénie reigned over the Second Empire, and their court was known for its extravagance, opulent fashion, and keen patronage of the arts. Perfume, already a mark of distinction, became an even greater symbol of refinement, and perfumers like Guerlain sought to capture this luxurious world in a bottle. During this era, royal-inspired scents were in demand, as the public looked to these fragrances as a means of embodying nobility’s elegance and securing their own place within a higher social echelon.

L’Œuf Surprise - 160 Year Anniversary of the Bee Bottle c2013

L’Œuf Surprise - was one of several special presentations created in 2013 to mark the 160th anniversary of the creation of the bee bottle, known as the Abeille flacon.

Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” of the Institut National des Métiers d’Art of France. Giving them full artistic freedom to create whatever they could envision to centre around a one litre bee bottle. The resulting incarnations are truly the epitome of one of a kind masterpieces.


The unique bottles were on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and were showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA). You can read more about the INMA online

Fabrice Gohard, Maître d’art – Class of 2010. This highly skilled ornamental gilder learned the familial trade from his father. His lavish water and oil gilding adorn woodwork, balconies and gates. But his superb expertise is also featured on the opulent façades of the Château de Versailles, the magnificent dome of the Invalides and the respendent flame of the Statue of Liberty.

From Guerlain:

“L’Œuf Surprise” (“The Surprise Egg”)

Like a Fabergé, this is a majestic egg in blown glass whose gold-leaf gilding brings to mind an eggshell that has just been broken: an allegory of the imperial genesis, the bottle and its scent. Inside the object, the Bee bottle is enhanced and shimmers in the lustre of gold. The exquisite refinement of this egg shape is ensured by a floral design painted inside the shell, delivering its secrets to only the most curious of onlookers. Its grace and femininity pay a lovely tribute to the beauty of the Empress Eugénie.

The nine exclusive works of art will be on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and will be showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA).