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Wednesday, February 15, 2023
Monday, January 23, 2023
West End by Guerlain c1839
Guerlain’s West End, launched in 1839, is a fragrance that captures the essence of London’s prestigious and fashionable district of the same name. The choice of "West End" as a name is a nod to one of London’s most affluent and culturally vibrant areas. The term "West End" refers to the district located in the western part of Central London, renowned for its high society and entertainment venues. It evokes images of opulent theaters, grand hotels, and elegant shopping streets, all contributing to a sense of refinement and luxury.
The name West End conjures images of a sophisticated and bustling area known for its exclusivity and status. The West End was famous in the early 19th century for its theaters and cultural landmarks, such as Covent Garden and the burgeoning entertainment scene, attracting the elite and socialites of London. The district was home to the city's wealthiest residents, and it became synonymous with high society and fashionable living.
For women of the time period, a perfume named West End would have signified an association with this luxurious lifestyle. It would have been perceived as a fragrance that embodies the elegance and exclusivity of London’s premier district, reflecting the aspirations and social status of those who wore it. The scent was likely crafted to evoke the same sophistication and charm as the area it was named after, making it a symbol of refined taste and social prestige.
It is noteworthy that West End was not an original creation by Guerlain but rather a popular fragrance of the era, with several major perfume houses offering their own versions. The widespread use of similar formulas underscores the scent’s appeal and its embodiment of the refined, sophisticated aura associated with London’s West End. The fragrance served as a marker of class and elegance, aligning itself with the high standards and cultural vibrancy of one of the world's most celebrated districts.
Monday, January 16, 2023
Bouquet Princess Alexandra by Guerlain c1878
Bouquet Princess Alexandra, launched by Guerlain in 1878, was created by Pierre-François Pascal Guerlain to commemorate the birth of Princess Alexandra of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. The name "Bouquet Princess Alexandra" carries deep significance, as it celebrates not just the arrival of a royal child but also evokes the grace, beauty, and elegance associated with her lineage. The word "Bouquet" suggests a collection of the finest flowers, carefully arranged in a tribute to the young princess. It is French in origin, further emphasizing Guerlain’s rich heritage in French perfumery and the opulent, courtly traditions of the time.
The name "Bouquet Princess Alexandra" conjures images of royalty, refinement, and grandeur. It evokes a scene of palaces, elegant gardens, and a lifestyle defined by grace and formality. The perfume, by its very name, suggests a fragrance that is both regal and tender, suitable for a royal figure. It conveys emotions of celebration, honor, and a sense of history in the making, marking a significant moment in European royalty. In scent, Bouquet Princess Alexandra could be interpreted as a delicate and graceful floral composition, perhaps reminiscent of roses and other royal blooms, meant to symbolize youth, innocence, and noble beauty.
Women of the late 19th century, especially those with aspirations toward refinement and class, would have found great allure in a perfume named after a royal princess. Royalty often set the trends in fashion and beauty, and wearing a fragrance associated with a figure like Princess Alexandra would have offered a sense of connection to that world. In a time when personal fragrance was one of the most intimate and cherished luxuries, owning such a perfume would have signified taste, sophistication, and admiration for royalty.
The time period of Bouquet Princess Alexandra's launch, the late 19th century, was one of significant cultural and political influence from royal families across Europe. Guerlain, already an established house with a reputation for creating luxurious perfumes, likely saw an opportunity to enhance their prestige by honoring a member of the British royal family. Princess Alexandra’s birth represented the union of important royal lineages, and celebrating such an event through fragrance was fitting for the brand’s history of crafting perfumes for aristocrats and royals.
Guerlain’s creation of perfumes for royalty was a strategic choice, reflecting both a deep appreciation for tradition and a desire to align with the opulence and status associated with the upper echelons of society. Perfumes made for royals not only bolstered the brand's reputation but also allowed it to connect with customers who sought to emulate the grandeur and sophistication of royal life.
Saturday, January 7, 2023
Thursday, December 29, 2022
Wednesday, December 28, 2022
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.
Tuesday, December 20, 2022
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.
Wednesday, October 26, 2022
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.
Thursday, October 13, 2022
Perfumy Barbara
Monday, September 19, 2022
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.
Tuesday, August 23, 2022
Thursday, June 30, 2022
Tuesday, May 31, 2022
Jadis by Guerlain c1883
Monday, May 30, 2022
Extrait de Caryophilus album by Guerlain c1848
Extrait de Caryophilus album by Guerlain: launched in 1848. This is the fragrant white carnation (dianthus) blossom.
Friday, April 29, 2022
Tubereuse by Guerlain c1833
Wednesday, March 30, 2022
Dix Petales de Roses by Guerlain c1897
Thursday, February 10, 2022
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.
Friday, July 30, 2021
Cyprisine by Guerlain c1894
Sunday, April 11, 2021
Monday, December 28, 2020
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.
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Sunday, November 26, 2017
Aux Bon Vieux Temps c1890
Tuesday, October 3, 2017
Monday, September 18, 2017
Rex by Guerlain c1890s
Sunday, June 25, 2017
Monday, May 1, 2017
Strange Shalimar Perfume Bottle c1970s
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.
Friday, January 27, 2017
Stilboide Fluide
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.
- 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
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Colored Crystal Quadrilobe Bottles
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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