Hello and welcome! Please understand that this website is not affiliated with Guerlain in any way, it is only a reference site for collectors and those who have enjoyed the classic fragrances of days gone by. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. The main objective of this website is to chronicle the 200+ year old history of the Guerlain fragrances and showcase the bottles and advertising used throughout the years. Let this site be your source for information on antique and vintage Guerlain perfumes. Another goal of this website is to show the present owners of the Guerlain company how much we miss many of the discontinued classics and hopefully, if they see that there is enough interest and demand, they will bring back these fragrances! I invite you to leave a comment below (for example: of why you liked the fragrance, describe the scent, time period or age you wore it, who gave it to you or on what occasion, what it smelled like to you, how it made you feel, any specific memories, what it reminded you of, maybe a relative wore it, or you remembered seeing the bottle on their vanity table), who knows, perhaps someone from the current Guerlain brand might see it. If you have any questions, please send all images of your bottle and pertinent information directly to me at cleopatrasboudoir@gmail.com. I will try to assist you the best I can.

Looking to Buy Vintage Fragrances?

Saturday, June 27, 2015

Guerlilas by Guerlain c1930

Guerlilas, launched by Guerlain in 1930 and created by Jean-Jacques Guerlain, carries a name that elegantly blends the company's signature with a botanical reference. The name "Guerlilas" is a portmanteau of "Guerlain" and "lilas," the French word for lilac. Pronounced "Gwer-lee-lah," the name evokes an image of both the esteemed Guerlain house and the delicate, enchanting lilac flower.

The word "Guerlilas" conjures images of a lush garden in full bloom, where the air is perfumed with the sweet, powdery aroma of lilacs. The name suggests a fragrance that harmoniously integrates Guerlain’s refined artistry with the soft, floral beauty of lilacs. Lilacs are known for their delicate, yet intoxicating scent, often evoking feelings of romance and nostalgia. This sense of refined elegance and gentle charm would have appealed greatly to women of the time, offering a scent that was both sophisticated and evocative.

Guerlilas is classified as a floral fragrance for women, with its predominant lilac notes layered over the signature Guerlinade accord. The fragrance opens with a fresh and floral burst of lilac, an ingredient known for its light and airy aroma that immediately transports the wearer to a serene garden. The lilac notes are complemented by the Guerlinade accord, which provides a rich, warm foundation that enhances the delicate floral scent with a touch of sensuality and depth. This combination creates a perfume that is both uplifting and comforting, with the lilac notes capturing the essence of spring and renewal.

During the early 20th century, lilacs were cherished in perfumery for their enchanting and subtle fragrance, often used to evoke a sense of floral purity and elegance. Guerlain would have sourced lilacs from various regions known for their cultivation, such as France, where the flower was prized for its high-quality blooms. The inclusion of lilac in Guerlilas not only reflects the era's preference for light and airy floral scents but also highlights Guerlain’s commitment to capturing nature's beauty in their creations.

In the context of the 1930s, a decade marked by both artistic innovation and a longing for elegance amidst the backdrop of global economic challenges, Guerlilas would have provided women with a touch of sophistication and floral grace. The perfume's delicate lilac notes would have resonated with the desire for refinement and beauty, offering a fragrant escape into a world of floral splendor and timeless elegance.




Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Shalimar Presentation Box with Cosmetics c1925



"Shalimar" - (1925) Very rare and important rectangular poplar wood box wrapped in emerald green morocco leather, decorated with gilded arabesques, used to protect a Baccarat crystal sample vial of "Shalimar", a powder box of  "Poudre C'est Moi" and a Bakelite "Rouge d'Enfer" lipstick case with trimmings. Interior satin lined box. D: 18, 5 x 28, 5cm.


Sunday, June 14, 2015

Ma Petite Robe Noire c2012

For Christmas 2012, Guerlain launched a pretty little trio of options for La Petite Robe Noire, which was freshly reworked that year. Three alternative “little black dresses” are featured on limited-edition bottles, named "Ma Petite Robe Noire."

You were able to choose which of the three dresses matched your or your gift recipient’s taste and have the bottle calligraphed with your name, initials or a secret message.








Friday, June 5, 2015

Agates Face Powder c1973

Before Guerlain released it's iconic Meteorites face powder pearls in 1987, they had introduced a precursor called Agates in 1973. The powder was so named for its beautiful box, which was inspired by Marie Antoinette's box covered in agates.


The box style was later used for the Meteorites packaging in 1987.





A very rare gold and pietra dura 'Steinkabinett', complete with secret compartment and explanatory booklet, Christian Gottlieb Stiehl, Dresden, circa 1770.  Of utmost rarity and 18th century scientific interest is the Steinkabinett by Christian Gottlieb Stiehl (1708-1792) – the lid of this ingeniously inlaid ‘Zellenmosaik’ hardstone box opens to reveal what resembles a stained glass window, and the original booklet contained in its secret compartment in the base lists all the stone specimens used for the carefully arranged hardstone surface of this precious masterpiece. 




Monday, June 1, 2015

ON EBAY!!! Candide Effluve 2007 Reissue in Brun Flume Flacon

ON EBAY!!! Candide Effluve 2007 Reissue in Brun Flume Flacon



Click here to see the auction



Candide Effluve was reissued in in 2007 as a limited edition in its historical bottle, the Brun Fume Baccarat crystal bottle. There are only 97 numbered bottles, which had a single production run in 1933, which were brought from the archives. The number engraved on each bottle is also rare and original. The bottle is housed inside of a velvet lined, lacquered presentation box. The reissue retailed for $2,600.

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral oriental fragrance for women.
  • Top notes: bergamot, lemon, ylang-ylang, lilac, angelica, thyme
  • Middle notes: muguet, styrax, hyacinth, rose, jasmine, iris, heliotrope , myrrh
  • Base notes: amber, sandalwood, leather, orris, patchouli, vetiver, benzoin, tonka bean and vanilla.

Mon Exclusif c2015

Mon Exclusif by Guerlain: launched in 2015. Created by Thierry Wasser.

To make a customized fragrance more accessible to those without unlimited purse strings, Guerlain has introduced Mon Exclusif, a fragrance that you can rename yourself.




Friday, May 8, 2015

Friday, April 24, 2015

Guerlain Teas


La Petite Robe Noire Black Tea - Nature & Gastronomy

Black tea character from the highlands of India, whose strength is softened by the greedy presence of red fruits.Black tea from India, slightly spicy and fruity - red berries and raspberry pieces. High in caffeine which stimulates and promotes concentration, it should drink tea La Petite Robe Noire until mid afternoon. It can also be consumed cold.



Shalimar Black and Green Tea Blend - Intensity and voluptuousness

This tea evokes the first Oriental perfume. Subtle mix of flowers and sensual woody amber accents, Shalimar has become forever the essence of love and radiant femininity.A subtle blend of green tea and black teas from China and Sri Lanka to vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, lavender and natural aroma of bergamot. Shalimar tea is rich in caffeine, known for giving energy and boost concentration.


Orchidee Imperiale Black Tea - Presence and grade

Symbol of femininity in Asia, the orchid is known for its extraordinary longevity virtues in Imperial Orchid. On a base of black tea, adding orchid aroma was made possible through a complex process that requires perfect control of the dosage to achieve create balance. The flavoring of tea is an art in itself. Chinese black tea with orchid aromas. The subtle and perfect combination of tea and flower. The Imperial Orchid tea is rich in caffeine known to give energy and boost concentration.



L'Heure Bleue Oolong Tea - Serenity and delight

Oolong Taïawan, Ding Dong, which means "ice mist of heights," refers to the name of Dong Ding mountain where the tea is grown. Tea L'Heure Bleue, with pretty leaves rolled, is consumed at sunset. The pretty leaves rolled Dong Ding Oolong from Taiwan, evoke delicious aromas of chestnut, honey and hints of white flowers.



Nerolia Bianca White Tea - Spontaneity and delicacy

This Bai Mudan - which means "white peony" - consists of the buds of the first two leaves of tea plants. A delicate white tea plunging into the cool Nerolia Bianca, spontaneous and joyful fragrance built around bitter orange. The flavors of the Chinese white tea from the Fujian region, harvested once a year in spring, evoke a zesty notes of wet willow, honey and flowers. This exceptional tea is dried naturally after being trated by hand. Its color reminds its silvery leaves and white downy buds. Nerolia Bianca is a tea cleansing and very refreshing.


Liu Green Tea - Femininity and subtlety

Grown in the Fujian region, this collection offers scented green tea buds gently with jasmine flowers harvested in July. A subtle tea in the image of Liu, a flowery and voluptuous fragrance hymn to femininity and true love. Chinese green tea scented with jasmine flowers. Jasmine is known for its digestive properties, soothing and calming.




Muguet c2015 Limited Edition Flacon

Muguet by Guerlain: launched in 2015. A yearly tradition for the first of May, Guerlain releases a very special limited edition Flacon to hold their beloved springtime scent Muguet. This year, a beautiful flacon is conceived in delicate blanc de chine Limoges porcelain. A separate simply designed glass flacon holds 75ml of the ethereal liquid imprisoning the souls of millions of lilies of the valley and a small gilded funnel is conveniently packaged alongside the flacons to make decanting an easy chore.




Shalimar Cologne (Eau de Toilette) c2015

Shalimar Cologne by Guerlain: launched in 2015. Created by Thierry Wasser. Although it is titled "Shalimar Cologne", it is in reality an eau de toilette.



Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Tacoma Gracilis c1886

Tacoma Gracilis by Guerlain: launched around 1886. Tacoma Gracilis, also known as Tecoma Gracilis, is a tropical creeper with large yellow flowers and small leaves. This variety clings to stone walls and is a hardy plant and grows very sturdily. Tecoma rosea, with pale pink flowers, is one of the hardiest of all Tecomas, and has pretty shiny leaves.




Thursday, April 16, 2015

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

No. 25 c2002

No. 25 by Guerlain: launched in 2002 as part of the Les Parisiennes line.

This is the perfume Terracotta Voile D'Ete. Created by Jean-Paul Guerlain and Mathilde Laurent. Discontinued by 2001.

  • 1999 Terracotta Voile D'Ete (discontinued)
  • 2002 No. 25 (discontinued)
  • 2005 Quand Vient l'Été 


Thursday, April 9, 2015

Iris Ganache c2007

Iris Ganache by Guerlain: launched in 2007. Created by Thierry Wasser as part of the L'Art et la Matiere collection.


Friday, March 27, 2015

Idylle Duet c2011

Idylle Duet by Guerlain: launched in 2011. Created by Thierry Wasser. The inspiration came from Les Nuits d'Ete, an 1841 work by Hector Berlioz .The duet in question is the marriage of rose and patchouli.


Thursday, March 19, 2015

ON EBAY!! Vintage 1920s Guerlinade Baccarat Flacon

On Ebay - Vintage 1920s Guerlinade Baccarat Flacon




Measure approx.5" inches *13 cm.bottle high,5,1/2" inches *14 cm.box high.



Click here to see the auction

Thursday, March 12, 2015

Marechale by Guerlain c1833

Maréchale by Guerlain, launched in 1833, is a perfume that carries a name steeped in historical and cultural significance. The word "Maréchale" is French for "Marshal," a high-ranking military officer. The choice of this name evokes images of authority, honor, and sophistication, reflecting a sense of grandeur and distinction. In the context of fragrance, "Maréchale" suggests a scent that is both commanding and refined, embodying the elegance and prestige associated with military rank.

The name "Maréchale" conjures up visions of regal military uniforms, elaborate ceremonies, and a world of formality and decorum. It resonates with the romanticized image of a distinguished officer whose presence is marked by an air of sophistication and strength. For women of the period, a perfume named "Maréchale" would have been associated with these qualities, suggesting a fragrance that was both potent and sophisticated, perhaps reflecting the valor and refinement of a Marshal.

In the early 19th century, when "Maréchale" was launched, the perfume industry was in a state of transition. The period was marked by an increasing interest in complex and sophisticated scents, moving beyond the simpler, single-note fragrances of earlier decades. Guerlain's creation of "Maréchale" would have aligned with this trend, offering a fragrance that was both unique and reflective of the era's evolving tastes.

The origins of "Maréchal" trace back to 1669, when it was originally created as a sachet powder for Madame La Maréchal d'Aumont, wife of Antoine, Marshal of France. This powder was designed to complement her hair color and was used to powder her coiffure. Its composition included powdered elecampane root and vetiver, which were also featured in other fragrances of the time, such as Guerlain’s own Bouquet du Roi. The original formulation, known as Poudre à la Maréchal, combined rose, elecampane, vetiver, iris, cloves, violet, orange, lavender, and marjoram, creating a scent that was as layered and complex as the Marshal’s own esteemed position.

By launching "Maréchale" in 1833, Guerlain not only paid homage to this historical fragrance but also tapped into the era's growing appreciation for nuanced and elaborate scents. The fragrance likely embodied the rich and varied notes of its predecessor, delivering a perfume that was both sophisticated and evocative of the distinguished character implied by its name.


Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Monday, March 9, 2015

Unter den Linden c1850s

Unter den Linden by Guerlain, introduced in the 1850s, carries a name steeped in evocative imagery and historical significance. The name Unter den Linden translates from German to "Under the Linden Trees," referencing a famous boulevard in Berlin’s Mitte district. This tree-lined avenue, known for its serene, grassy mall and the grand linden trees that shade its pathways, evokes a sense of elegant tranquility and refined urban beauty.

The choice of this name for Guerlain’s fragrance suggests a deliberate effort to capture the essence of this iconic location. The imagery conjured by Unter den Linden is one of leisurely strolls beneath the dappled light of lush linden trees, a setting that blends natural splendor with sophisticated city life. In scent, Unter den Linden would likely be interpreted as an attempt to encapsulate the delicate, fresh aroma of linden blossoms. Linden flowers are known for their soft, sweet fragrance with subtle honeyed undertones, which would have appealed to those seeking a refined and soothing floral experience.

Women of the 19th century encountering Unter den Linden would have been drawn to its elegant and evocative name, associating it with the cultured and leisurely pursuits of high society. The fragrance would resonate with a sense of sophistication and grace, reflecting the period’s growing appreciation for nuanced and complex scents.

During the 1850s, the fragrance market was evolving rapidly, with increasing experimentation in scent formulation. Unter den Linden fits within this context as part of a broader trend of creating floral compositions that highlighted both natural and newly synthesized elements. Early formulas for Unter den Linden would have utilized natural extracts, infusions, and tinctures to achieve the fresh, floral aroma of linden blossoms. As the century progressed, the introduction of synthetic compounds such as coumarin and heliotropin began to influence perfume creation, enabling more consistent and enduring representations of delicate floral notes.

In summary, Unter den Linden was more than just a fragrance; it was a sensory homage to a beloved Berlin boulevard, designed to evoke the timeless beauty and sophistication associated with its namesake.



Myrrhe & Delires c2012

Myrrhe & Delires by Guerlain: launched in 2012. Created by Thierry Wasser as part of the  L'Art et la Matiére Collection.




Sunday, March 8, 2015

L'Instant d'Un Ete c2006

L'Instant d'Un Ete by Guerlain: launched in 2006.

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral oriental fragrance for women.
  • Top notes: grapefruit, bitter orange
  • Middle notes: magnolia, jasmine, ylang-ylang
  • Base notes: vanilla, benzoin and musk

It is available as eau de toilette.


Friday, March 6, 2015

Le Présentoir à Secrets c2013

Le Présentoir Ã  Secrets - 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.

Ludwig Vogelgesang, Maître d’art – Class of 2010. A cabinet maker  who specialised in the discerning restoration of luxurious antique Art Deco furniture, originally designed by such notables as Ruhlman, Groult, Franck. His exquisite taste and astute style is sought after not only by renowned interior designers, galleries and museums, but by discriminating private collectors as well.

From Guerlain:

“Le Présentoir à Secrets” (“The Display Case with Secrets”) 
This precious cylindrical sculpture unites two luxurious materials: ivory shagreen and brown rosewood. On its façade, the rare wood traces and outlines the honeycombs. A few small and painstakingly sculpted bees act as clever handles for hidden drawers that can be used to hide one’s treasures. Like crowns, two carved friezes adorn the base and top of this delicate piece. The imperial bottle reigns from the top of the case on a radiant shagreen tray.

Saturday, February 28, 2015

ON EBAY!! Vintage 1920s DJEDI Parfum Baccarat Flacon with Box

On ebay this week!! Vintage 1920s Djedi Parfum Extrait in Baccarat crystal bottle with original box. There is about 25% of the original perfume still inside. Base of bottle has the Baccarat acid stamp. Bottle stands 3.5" tall.



Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Idylle Love Blossom c2014

Idylle Love Blossom by Guerlain: launched in 2014. Created by Thierry Wasser. It is a limited edition fragrance found only at exclusive international airports.

Sunday, February 22, 2015

L`Instant Magic Elixir c2009

L`Instant Magic Elixir by Guerlain: launched in 2009.


So what does it smell like? t is classified as a Floral Woody Musk fragrance for women.


  • Top notes: bitter almond
  • Middle notes: orchid
  • Base notes: white musk and Tahitian vanilla
Unfortunately, this fragrance has been discontinued by Guerlain.


.

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

ON EBAY!!! Vintage 1990s Guerlain Perfume Dramming Case

This is only the second known case that I have seen. This is a very rare, Guerlain perfume organ used across the United States in retail stores at some Guerlain perfume counters to dram perfume into mini bottles as a gift with a Guerlain perfume purchase in the early 1990's - 1996 to be exact. Each bottle size is approximately 8 fluid ounces, has a label, and a glass dropper with a rubber top.

 The faux blue leather box (outside measurements are 16 & 1/2 inches wide, 16 & 1/2 inches tall, and a little over 6 & 1/2 inches deep), the interior has an upper row and a lower row for the bottles, the inside back is a plastic mirror. Each bottle is held in place by a metal clamp secured against the back. There are slots for 24 bottles, however only 19 have survived over the years. The latches have a key hole, but no keys. 

The fragrances are as follows along with the date written on the label which is the date of the scent's creation;
  • Eau de Cologne Imperiale 1853 - 1/2 full
  • Shalimar 1925 - 7/8 full
  • Champs Elysees 1996 - 1/2 full
  • Samsara 1989 - 1/4 full
  • Mitsouko 1919 - 1/5 full
  • Jicky 1989 - almost 1/2 full
  • L'Heure Bleue 1912 - 1/3 full
  • Eau de Fleur de Cedrat 1920 - 1/4 full
  • Eau de Guerlain 1974 - 1/2 full
  • Eau de Cologne du Coq 1894 - over 1/2 full
  • Jardins de Bagatelle 1983 - 1/6 full
  • Vol du Nuit 1933 - 1/2 full
  • Chamade 1969 - 1/5 full
  • Apres L'Ondee 1906 - 1/2 full
  • Nahema 1979 - 1/3 full
  • Parure 1975 - almost 1/6 full
  • Habit Rouge 1965 - over 1/2 full (small chip on opening of bottle)
  • Vetiver 1959 - almost 1/3 full
  • Heritage 1992- 1/3 full (small chip on end of dropper)





Click HERE to view auction

ON EBAY!! Vintage GUERLAIN Extrait L'Heure Bleue 623 Unopened, Sealed Box

Vintage GUERLAIN Extrait L'Heure Bleue 623 Unopened, Sealed Box



Click HERE to view auction

L'Instant de Guerlain c2003

L'Instant de Guerlain by Guerlain: launched in 2003. Created by Maurice Roucel.




Monday, February 16, 2015

La Route de la Soie - Limited Editions c1999

In 1999, Guerlain issued Samsara, Champs Elysées, and Shalimar in limited edition boxes and bottles for a new collection called La Roue de la Soie, or the Silk Road.

Sunday, February 15, 2015

Stalizia Grandiflora c1886

Stalizia Grandiflora by Guerlain: launched in 1886. Created by Aime Guerlain. It appears to be a scientific name for a flowering plant.