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.

Cyprisine by Guerlain c1894

Cyprisine, launched by Guerlain in 1894 and created by Aimé Guerlain, carries a name that evokes a sense of elegance and timeless beauty. The word "Cyprisine" is derived from the name Cyprus, rooted in French ("Chypre"), which is historically linked to the island where Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, was said to have emerged. The name "Cyprisine" draws on this mythological heritage, symbolizing an air of romance, allure, and femininity. It would have immediately conjured images of classical beauty, the Mediterranean, and the divine presence of Aphrodite herself. Women of the Belle Époque would have likely interpreted Cyprisine as a fragrance of sophistication, embodying grace, sensuality, and mystery.

In scent, Cyprisine would be experienced as both earthy and ethereal. As a chypre fragrance, it followed a traditional formula of blending citrus top notes with a heart of florals and a mossy, resinous base. Chypre perfumes are characterized by their unique contrast between fresh and warm, bright and dark, making them both timeless and compelling. Women of the late 19th century, emerging in an age of luxury and artistry, would have appreciated the rich complexity of this fragrance. The name Cyprisine would evoke visions of lush Mediterranean landscapes, warm breezes, and the soft fragrance of forested hillsides, giving a sense of escape and elegance.

The Belle Époque, the period in which Cyprisine was introduced, was an era of opulence, where art, fashion, and luxury goods flourished. Perfume was an essential accessory for women during this time, and Guerlain was at the forefront of creating sophisticated, high-quality scents. While many fragrances of the time focused on florals, such as violet and rose, chypre perfumes stood out for their depth and multifaceted composition. Cyprisine, with its chypre structure, would have been unique and daring compared to the more straightforward floral compositions popular in the 1890s, appealing to women who desired something bold, distinctive, and grounded in nature.

A chypre fragrance is built on a traditional accord of three key components: citrus, typically bergamot, at the top; a heart of floral or fruity notes; and a base of earthy, resinous notes like oakmoss, labdanum, and patchouli. This creates a beautifully balanced contrast between light and dark, where fresh citrus evolves into a warm, woody dry down. Chypres were among the most sophisticated of fragrance families, offering a long-lasting and elegant profile that felt luxurious and rich.

Fleurs de Lavande c1900

Fleurs de Lavande by Guerlain: launched circa 1900.

Patchouli Ardent by Guerlain 2020

 Patchouli Ardent by Guerlain: launched in 2020. Created in by Thierry Wasser as part of the Les Absolus d'Orient line. 

Guerlain's Depilatory & Prepared Water c1910

The taller bottle stands 4 5/8" tall

 

Historical Powders & Rouge

Aux Bon Vieux Temps c1890

Au Bon Vieux Temps, launched in 1890 by Jacques Guerlain, is a name steeped in sentimentality and rich, nostalgic imagery. Translated from French, Au Bon Vieux Temps means "In the Good Old Times." This phrase immediately conjures a longing for the past, for an era of elegance, tradition, and simpler, more gracious living. By naming the perfume this way, Guerlain taps into the collective yearning for the romance of a bygone era—a time when life was more measured, and beauty was found in the everyday, such as in the scent of potpourri wafting through homes or the musk-soaked fabrics of the previous century.

The name evokes the warmth and comfort of a time when homes were adorned with sweet jars filled with dried flowers, herbs, and spices, known as potpourri. These jars released gentle, lingering scents throughout rooms, making them a constant presence in the domestic life of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Potpourri was a means of keeping the home fragrant, long before modern perfumes or air fresheners existed. The scent of potpourri was often layered with spices, dried petals, and herbs, delivering a rich, earthy aroma that could be sweet and spicy or powdery and floral, depending on the blend. This nostalgic connection to the home, with the comforting smells of potpourri, would have resonated with women of the late 19th century, particularly as they navigated a rapidly changing world.

Au Bon Vieux Temps would be interpreted in scent as a return to these comforting, familiar smells—those of leather-bound books, musky perfumes, and richly decorated interiors. It likely captured the essence of a room filled with potpourri jars, combining woody, musky, and sweet floral notes in a way that invoked a sense of warmth, stability, and timelessness. For women of the time, this perfume would represent a connection to their heritage, recalling the old-world charm of grand homes, lush gardens, and the slower pace of life from their mothers' and grandmothers' generations. It would embody a sense of elegance rooted in tradition, and wearing such a fragrance would be a way to express refinement and an appreciation for the past.

The perfume was launched at the cusp of the Belle Époque, a period in French history from the late 19th century into the early 20th century, known for its cultural flourishing, technological advances, and artistic innovation. Though forward-looking, the Belle Époque also had a strong sense of nostalgia for the past, particularly for the aesthetics and customs of earlier centuries. During this period, there was a great fascination with the opulence and elegance of the 18th century, which influenced everything from fashion to interior design, and Au Bon Vieux Temps would have fit neatly into this trend of romanticizing the past.

Un Air de Samsara c1995

Un Air de Samsara: launched in 1995.  It was created by Jean-Paul Guerlain as a lighter and fresher version of the successful oriental perfume 'Samara'.

Rex by Guerlain c1890s

Rex by Guerlain, launched in the 1890s, carries with it a name steeped in regal symbolism. The word "Rex" is Latin for "king," a simple yet powerful word that evokes a sense of authority, grandeur, and legacy. Guerlain’s choice of this name was deliberate, reflecting the continued influence and admiration of monarchy and aristocracy during this time, as well as an allusion to one of its earlier fragrances, Bouquet du Roi (King’s Bouquet). In renaming the fragrance "Rex," Guerlain not only modernized the earlier creation but also amplified its association with royalty and prestige, aligning the perfume with the grandeur of kingship.

The word "Rex" conjures images of royal courts, gilded palaces, and stately ceremonies. It evokes feelings of power, grace, and nobility, bringing to mind the opulence and dignity associated with monarchy. In scent, "Rex" would be interpreted as something deeply luxurious, possibly rich and layered with notes that symbolize strength and refinement—perhaps rich woods like sandalwood or cedar, deep spices, and subtle floral accords like iris or violet, which often signify elegance and royalty in perfumery. It would be a fragrance that commands attention and evokes respect, much like the presence of a king.

For women of the 1890s, a perfume called "Rex" would have symbolized a connection to aristocratic elegance and sophistication. This was a period when monarchies and noble titles still held considerable sway over society, and the idea of royalty was deeply admired. Women who wore Rex would likely feel an air of distinction and privilege, imagining themselves stepping into the shoes of queens or noblewomen. The name alone would suggest that the wearer was someone of importance, or at the very least, someone who desired to embody the grace and power associated with royalty.

The time period of the 1890s was one of transition, as Europe still maintained many monarchies, even while democratic movements gained traction. Guerlain, a house rooted in tradition and famed for its perfumes tailored to the tastes of the elite, continued to create fragrances that appealed to royalty and nobility. This was the era of the Belle Époque, a period of flourishing art, culture, and fashion in Paris. The wealthy upper classes, including European royalty, were still influential arbiters of taste, and luxurious fragrances were essential to their image.

By naming the fragrance Rex, Guerlain reinforced its ties to nobility, continuing a tradition of serving royalty and aristocrats. The brand had already established itself as a favorite among elite circles, having created perfumes for Empress Eugénie and other royal figures. Guerlain understood the importance of maintaining this connection with the upper echelons of society, where opulence, status, and tradition were still highly valued. At the same time, Rex could also appeal to the aspirational classes, as it represented a touch of regal luxury that symbolized power and exclusivity in a period where many people still admired and sought to emulate the elegance of nobility.

Guerlain Cosmetics & Skincare c1960s-1970s

Strange Shalimar Perfume Bottle c1970s

I came across this unusual vintage Shalimar extrait bottle on ebay a few weeks ago and felt it was highly suspect. I have never seen this bottle shape before in any Guerlain advertising and wondered if perhaps it was a well crafted vintage fake or if it was an item made only for sale in the United States or Canada.


The Shalimar label on the bottle is askew and just looks weird. The bottle sits inside of a cardboard insert. There is a weird little sign underneath the bottle of which I have never seen before. There is a price of $35.00 printed on the box where the Ref # (Catalog #) should be.

The price would be about right for the time period for a 1 oz bottle as it was retailing for $30 in 1973 and the price went up to $40 and ounce in 1976.

Why would extrait be housed in this ugly bottle. It appears that it could be used for travel.

Click Here to see the weird Shalimar bottle

Stilboide Fluide

Stilboide Fluide was a liquid hair groom and beard groom scented with various Guerlain fragrances over the years. It was also made "to maintain the curl of the so-called English papillotes." Papillotes was paper that was used to curl the hair, and thus the curly hair obtained with this method is known as "papillotes."

 Stilboide Fluid is similar to brilliantine and was mainly an alcohol mixture scented with perfume oils. You might come across these today and notice that the contents have separated leaving the alcohol mixture at the bottom of the bottle while the scented oils rose to the top of the bottle.

I found an ad for the Stilboide Fluide as early as 1875.

1875 ad

Some of the earliest Stilboide Fluid scents were:

• Bouquet
• Chypre
• Coq Gaulois
• Derniere Cri
• Des Pages
• Fragrans
• Heliotrope
• Jicky
• Makis
• New Mown Hay
• Pepita
• Rex
• Simplex
• Sornette
• Violette
• Ylang Ylang

Stilboide Fluide was available in the following scents:

• Champs Elysees
• Cuir de Russie
• Guerlilas
• Hegemonienne
• Jicky
• L'Heure Bleue
• Liu
• Mitsouko
• Shalimar
• Sous Le Vent
• Vague Souvenir
• Vol de Nuit

Colored Crystal Quadrilobe Bottles

In 2016, Guerlain introduced a line of limited edition crystal quadrilobe flacons in dazzling jewel like colors, inspired by the principle of synesthesia (the idea that color has a scent). Dubbed the Color Collection it is comprised of five bottles, each decorated with the fluffed barbichage tassel performed by hand by the Dames du Table. Each bottle retails for 650,00 €.

Looking to buy someone a personal gift? These bottles can also represent the various birthstones and would make an appropriate present for someone's birthday or anniversary.

Spiritueuse Double Vanille is housed in a fiery shade evocative of a Padparadscha sapphire.

The Padparadscha and blue sapphires correspond to the month of September and the Taurus zodiac sign.

Incidentally, the sapphire is given as a 65th wedding anniversary.

Santal Royal is housed in a verdant emerald green bottle.

Emerald is the birthstone for May, the stone for the star sign Cancer and is the traditional gift for a 20th wedding anniversary.

L'Heure de Nuit is dressed in the finest shade akin to a blue Kashmir sapphire.

The sapphire corresponds to the birth month of September and the stone for Taurus.

The sapphire is also a traditional gift for a 45th wedding anniversary.

Oriental Brulant is presented in a crystal flacon of the precious pigeon blood red Burmese ruby.

The ruby is representative of the month of July and is the stone for Capricorn.

The ruby is also given as a present for a 40th wedding anniversary.

L’Eau de Parfum du 68 is contained in a bicolor crystal shade recalling the purple and deep yellow of the ametrine (amethyst & citrine).

Though ametrine itself is not a birthstone it can be considered the birthstone of February, the birthstone of November or the Pisces birthstone because it is part amethyst, part citrine.

It could also be given for the 6th (amethyst) and 13th (citrine) wedding anniversaries.



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Muguet Millesime c2016

Muguet Millesime 2016: launched in 2016. Created by Thierry Wasser.

From Guerlain:

"Every year since 2006, the Exclusive Muguet Eau de Toilette by Guerlain blossoms anew on 1st May in a luxurious numbered limited edition..A wonderful gift idea for a loved one."

Shalimar Souffle de Parfum Collector Flacon c2016

Shalimar Souffle de Parfum Collector Flacon: launched in 2016 as a limited edition collector's bottle, the fragrance remains the same.