The Prochaska perfumery, originally established in Prague by Franz Prochaska, has a rich history that reflects the evolution of fragrance craftsmanship in Europe. In its early years, the company garnered a reputation for quality and innovation, ultimately relocating to Vienna, Austria in 1847, where it continued to flourish. By 1925, the perfumery underwent a significant transformation and rebranded as Proka Parfumerie, marking a new chapter in its storied legacy. This transition was not merely a change of name; it represented a strategic division of the original Prochaska company into two distinct entities: Edouardo and Proka Parfumerie.
The rebranding to Proka Parfumerie was officially registered in 1927, solidifying its place in the perfume industry. This division allowed both brands to pursue their unique identities and market strategies while continuing to deliver quality fragrances to their clientele. The Proka line was distributed by Parfums Edouardo, linking the two entities and enhancing their reach within the competitive perfume market.
Under the leadership of Franz Prochaska, the brand cultivated a commitment to excellence that defined its products. The transition to Proka Parfumerie in Vienna showcased a blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities, paving the way for innovative fragrances that catered to the evolving tastes of consumers in the 20th century. This history not only highlights the brand's adaptation to market changes but also emphasizes its enduring legacy within the world of perfumery. The Proka Parfumerie stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication that have characterized Austrian fragrance production for over a century.
Prochaska Perfumes:
- 1865 Eau de Lavande
- 1865 Eau de Lavande Ambre
- 1865 Bouquet Madeira Exhibition
- 1865 Bouquet Alexandra Princess of Wales
- 1865 Osbourne Bouquet
- 1891 Bouquet de L'Exposition
- 1892 Extract Violette Russes
- 1902 Ambre Royal
- 1906 Violette Prochaska
- 1906 Sweet Pea
- 1906 New Mown Hay
- 1906 Rose Reine
- 1906 Empire
- 1906 Mon Secret
- 1906 Le Supreme
- 1906 Violette Merveilleuse
- 1908 Extract Royal Rose
- 1909 Bouquet Ideal Extract
- 1910 Royal Frosia
- 1910 Violette Fleuri
- 1910 Muguet Fleuri
- 1911 Royal Bouvardia
- 1911 Royal Bouquet Extract
- 1915 Mon Amour
- 1925 Bul Bul
- 1928 Original Bouvardia
- Astrid
- Œillet Royal
Julian Viard perfume bottle of clear crystal with enamel and brown patina. c. 1926. 3 1/4", for Prochaska, bottle made in Czechoslovakia, photo from Rago Arts.
Parfums Edouardo:
Parfums Edouardo had an executive office at 20 Broad Street, New York City, NY. In 1930, it was located at 300 Fourth Ave New York City.
Had a factory in Grasse, France.
Established by the artist MB Tatum in Madison Avenue, New York; launched a range of fragrances in the 1920's.
Edouardo produced a unique lines of perfumes, soaps, powders, cosmetics and perfumery novelties made and packed at their establishment in Grasse.
The perfumes of Parfums Edouardo:
- 1925 Bag Dabs (line of solid perfume)
- 1925 Bouvardia (under the Prochaska name)
- 1925 Air d'Ambré
- 1925 Atakor
- 1925 Bul Bul (under the Prochaska name)
- 1925 Orchidia
- 1925 Orys
- 1925 Daphne
- 1925 Folie de Cœur
- 1925 Lakme
- 1925 Narcissus
- 1925 Jasmin
- 1925 Orange Blossom
- 1925 Rose
- 1926 Blue Line (a presentation of Jasmin, Narcisse and Lilac)
- 1926 Nuit Divine
- 1926 Watch Case Flower perfume (presentation)
- 1927 Egyptian Alabastron
- 1927 Lotus
- 1928 Double Lotus (presentation of two bottles for Christmas)
- 1928 Lilas de Paques
- 1928 Coffret (presentation)
Launched in 1927, Egyptian Alabastron by Edouardo was a striking perfume that exemplified the elegance of its time. Encased in a rare Baccarat bottle, this exquisite creation featured clear crystal adorned with intricate raised white and turquoise blue enameling. The bottle’s design showcased meticulous molded details that enhanced its luxurious appearance. Standing at 4 inches tall, the bottle is elegantly stenciled with the Baccarat signature on its base, affirming its authenticity and quality.
The standout feature of this bottle is its lotus-shaped stopper, which is beautifully accented with blue patina, adding a touch of sophistication. The design was inspired by an ancient bottle from the esteemed collection of Enrico Caruso, merging historical significance with modern craftsmanship. The combination of the enchanting colors and the timeless lotus motif not only reflected the allure of ancient Egypt but also captured the essence of the Art Deco movement prevalent during the era.
Egyptian Alabastron by Edouardo not only served as a fragrance but also as a decorative piece, making it a desirable addition for collectors and perfume enthusiasts alike. Its intricate design and luxurious materials resonated with a clientele seeking both beauty and history in their fragrance choices. The perfume thus represented more than just scent; it was a celebration of artistry and an homage to the grandeur of ancient civilizations.
The bottles are topped with a molded glass stopper, also shaped like a lotus flower, harmonizing with the floral motifs of the bottle itself. This stopper, highlighted with cobalt blue patination, not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds to the opulent look that is synonymous with Baccarat’s craftsmanship. The cobalt accents underscore the cool elegance of the design, while paying homage to the ancient Egyptian reverence for the lotus flower as a symbol of rebirth and purity.
Each bottle was housed in an equally impressive presentation box, crafted in a unique “chapel” shape that emphasizes the exclusivity of the perfume within. The box was made of cardboard covered with luxurious morocco paper, lending it a tactile quality that complements the overall theme. Inside, the box is lined with cobalt blue satin that echoes the blue accents on the bottle, creating a cohesive presentation. The box opens with two doors, and features matching cobalt blue trimmings, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The title “Edouardo - Grasse - France” is elegantly displayed, signifying the fragrance's provenance and the meticulous artistry that Edouardo and Baccarat brought together.
Bag-Dabs:
Edouardo introduced a unique line of solid perfumes called "Bag-Dabs from the French Riviera," which were sold in galalith pots. Galalith, also known as “milk stone,” is a plastic derived from casein (milk protein) and formaldehyde. This material became popular in the early 20th century due to its durability, non-porous nature, and ability to be molded and polished to a high shine. Galalith was an ideal choice for containing solid perfumes as it provided a stable, unbreakable container that preserved the scent without risk of leakage or evaporation, making it well-suited for carrying in handbags.
Marketed as “the season’s successful novelty,” Bag-Dabs were promoted as the perfect handbag accessory, with the slogan: “Smart women carry bag-dabs. Do you?” These solid perfumes were specifically designed to avoid issues common with liquid perfumes: they wouldn’t evaporate, turn rancid, or spill. This made them an excellent option for women seeking a reliable, portable fragrance. The perfumes came in four distinct scents—Narcissus, Jasmin, Lakme, and Orange Blossom—each housed in hand-painted galalith pots that corresponded to their fragrance with specific colors: Narcissus in Blue, Jasmin in Green, Lakme in Red, and Orange Blossom in Amber.
The brand emphasized the Bag-Dabs’ French origin and luxurious appeal, stating that the perfumes and their decorative containers were all made in France. Sets of three scents were also available, allowing customers to create custom blends by dabbing a bit of each. The chic and practical Bag-Dabs quickly became a favorite, with Edouardo actively promoting them across the United States. They were positioned as exquisite, lasting, and inexpensive gifts, perfect for small tokens, party favors, and prizes.
"Smart women carry bag-dabs you one? If not call at The Gift . Fields, Risco resident, to Cape... bag-dabs the latest French perfumery, BAG DABS— direct from France. A solid perfume Mother will Appreciate. Will not evaporate, turn rancid or spill in her hand bag. Four odors: Narcissus, Lakme, Jasmin, Orange Blossom, in two sizes $1.25 - $1.75."
"Satisfactory solid scent at last! The season’s successful novelty. Packed in French hand painted, non-porous, unbreakable boxes (not celluloid). “Edouardo” brings from their factory at Grasse what every perfumer has been trying for and what every woman wants - a solid perfume - that can be carried safely and daintily - that will not turn rancid, evaporate, nor spill in the bag. Just the thing for prizes, favors of the small gift - inexpensive, lasting and exquisite. The colors denote the odeurs: Narcissus in Blue, Jasmin in Green, Lakme in Red, Orange Blossom in Amber, and Rose in Pink"
"One need no longer leave their favorite perfume on the dressing table. Edouardo Bag-Dabs may be had in sets of three different odors. A dab from each makes an individual blend. This satisfactory solid perfume is now being imported by Edouardo and is for sale throughout the country in the better shops under the name "Edouardo's" Bag-Dabs. Edouardo Bag-Dabs, both perfume and boxes, are made in France. Be sure to ask for Bag-Dabs by name. Parfums EDOUARDO."
"If you are a user of the famous Bag-Dabs, you will appreciate the appeal of Lilas de Paques. Lilas de Paques is bottled and sealed in France, and is exclusively an Edouardo product. The beautiful hand'painted containers are also imported from France."
"Solid Perfume Sticks. There is nothing new about solid perfume, of course. Parfums Edouardo was probably among the first to introduce it in the United States early in 1926 in the form of "Bag-Dabs." Narcissus, Jasmin, Lakme, and Orange Blossom fragrances came in solid form packaged in hand- painted, non-porous, unbreakable containers."
Bag Dabs in wooden box, photo from worthpoint
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