Parfumerie Silka, also known as Parfums Silka, was founded by Maurice Roussel in 1909 at 16 Quai de la Mégisserie in Paris. Maurice Roussel was connected to the esteemed Parfumerie Roussel family, which had been a prominent name in the fragrance industry since 1852. The Roussel family's previous venture, Parfumerie Roussel, had achieved considerable acclaim with their highly successful Eau Gorlier during the 19th century. This lineage of expertise and innovation in perfumery provided a strong foundation for the establishment of Parfumerie Silka, continuing the family’s legacy in the world of fragrance.

Parfumerie Silka was renowned for its production of refined and sophisticated perfumes and cosmetics, characterized by their romantic and original names. During the period from 1910 to 1920, the brand became particularly notable for its striking and unusual luxury presentations. These unique designs not only captured the essence of the era’s elegance but also set Silka apart in the competitive world of fragrance. The combination of innovative packaging and evocative names contributed to the brand's reputation for opulence and creativity, reflecting the sophisticated sensibilities of its time.

Several of Silka's perfumes were elegantly presented in bottles designed by Lucien Gaillard, a renowned Art Nouveau jeweler and contemporary of René Lalique. Gaillard's distinctive designs graced a range of Silka fragrances, including Ikonia, Arôme Mystique, C'est, Chypre, Violette, Narcisse, and Ami. Gaillard’s expertise in jewelry design brought an added layer of sophistication to these bottles, reflecting his artistic vision and the luxurious nature of Silka's offerings. His collaboration with the perfume house exemplified the seamless blend of art and fragrance, contributing to the allure and exclusivity of each scent.

In 1919, the Turkish city of Konya served as the inspiration for Ikonia, a captivating perfume produced by Parfumerie Silka. Drawing from Konya's rich cultural and historical heritage, Ikonia embodied the exotic allure and mystique of this storied city. The fragrance captured the essence of Konya through its sophisticated blend of notes, reflecting the city’s unique atmosphere and charm. This perfume not only celebrated the beauty of Konya but also highlighted Silka's commitment to creating evocative and memorable scents that resonated with the romantic and exotic sensibilities of the era..

The designer Georges Chevalier contributed his creative vision to several of Silka's perfume bottles, including L'Inattendue and Si Tu Veux. Renowned for his innovative and artistic approach, Chevalier’s designs infused these bottles with a distinct elegance and charm. His work for Silka not only enhanced the visual appeal of these fragrances but also complemented their sophisticated scents. The collaboration between Chevalier and Silka exemplified the synergy between artistry and perfumery, resulting in bottles that were as enchanting and memorable as the fragrances they contained.

Julien Viard was the creative mind behind several of Silka's exquisite perfume bottles, including those for Rose, Chèvrefeuille, and Jasmin. Known for his masterful design skills, Viard’s contributions to these bottles showcased his ability to blend elegance with artistic flair. Each design was crafted to enhance the character of the fragrance it contained, reflecting Viard’s keen sense of aesthetics and his understanding of the sensory experience of perfume. The bottles he created for Silka are distinguished by their refined details and sophisticated forms, underscoring the luxurious nature of the perfumes they housed.

Several of Silka's distinguished bottles were crafted by Baccarat, renowned for their exceptional quality and artistry. The fragrance Ami was elegantly encased in Baccarat bottle #552, while Lunasol found its home in bottle #673. Toquade was presented in bottle #604, and Ombre du Soir was housed in bottle #506. The bottle designated #687 was used for Si Tu Veux, and Narcisse was also showcased in bottle #552. Additionally, Ikonia was meticulously designed, reflecting Baccarat's commitment to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design. Each bottle not only served as a vessel for Silka's luxurious perfumes but also stood as a testament to Baccarat's renowned artistry in glassmaking.

Maurice Depinoix lent his expertise to the creation of several notable perfume bottles, including those for the fragrance C'est. Renowned for his innovative approach and attention to detail, Depinoix’s designs were characterized by their elegance and sophistication. The bottle for C'est exemplifies his skill in blending form and function, showcasing a design that complements the fragrance's refined character. Depinoix’s work added a distinctive touch to Silka’s collection, enhancing the overall sensory experience with bottles that were as artistically compelling as the perfumes they contained.

During World War II, the Silka perfume company ceased operations, reflecting the broader disruptions faced by many businesses during the conflict. After the war, Silka resumed its activities and continued to produce perfumes until around 1950. The company experienced a revival in the late 1990s, marking a return to the fragrance market with a renewed focus on its storied heritage and craftsmanship. This resurgence allowed Silka to reconnect with its legacy of creating sophisticated and luxurious perfumes, reestablishing its place in the world of fine fragrance.

The perfumes of Silka:

1910 Caricia
1912 Flamme Parfumee
1917 Ikonia
1918 Rose de Silka
1919 Konia
1920 Arôme Mystique
1920 C'est
1920 Chèvrefeuille
1920 Jasmin
1920 Narcisse
1920 Heliotrope
1920 Muguet
1920 Bouquet Silka
1920 Chypre
1920 Œillet
1920 Violette
1920 Gardenia
1921 Lunasol
1925 Alty's
1925 L'Inattendue
1925 Ami
1926 Toquade/Tocade
1928 Ombre du Soir
1929 Si Tu Veux
1919 Eau de Cologne Ambre
1929 Eau de Cologne Silka
1930 Tabac Mystique
1930 Viens à Moi
1946 Cœur de Paris
1946 Fleurs de Tabac
1946 Le Bouquet de Silka
1946 S de Silka
1946 Tabac de Iles
1946 Coy de Paris
Style Fleuri
Cuir de Russie

Bottles:

Ami:

Ami #1...Clear glass round flacon, with round screw cap. Stands 4,5 cm , diam : 6,5 cm.

Ami #2....Perfume bottle in black glass with frosted stopper, with gilded labels and faux eggshell decoration, c. 1925. 7 3/4".

Narcisse:

Circa 1923. Lucien Gaillard designed perfume bottle and stopper, clear glass molded as bamboo, molded and paper labels, enamel detail. 5 1/2 in. Made by Cristalleries de Baccarat bottle # 552

photo by Perfume Bottles Auction

Circa 1923. Miniature presentation created by Lucien Gaillard. Clear glass bottle molded with a checkerboard pattern with matching stopper ; complete with red leather case that has a cut-out window to reveal the label. Flacon stands 2" tall, embossed on base " G" inside a circle.

Toquade:

Circa 1926. Toquade, a clear and frosted crystal with recessed name labels. Stenciled BACCARAT. Ht. 4 in.

photo by Rago Arts

Lunasol:

Circa 1928. Lunasol perfume bottle and stopper, clear crystal, enamel and silver gilt, molded labeling, metal cover, box. Baccarat mark. 3 5/8 in.

Photo by Perfume Bottles Auction

L'Inattendue:

Circa 1925. Georges Chevalier designed L'Inattendue atomizer, clear glass, black and gold enamel, gilt metal fittings. Perfume dispenses through mouth. 4 3/4 in.