Solis Le Clairac, a distinguished perfume house based in Paris, France, began an exclusive export partnership with the renowned El Encanto store in Havana, Cuba, around 1932. This collaboration marked a significant moment in both Solis Le Clairac’s history and the retail landscape of Havana. The El Encanto store, known for its upscale offerings, became the sole outlet for Solis Le Clairac’s perfumes outside of France, establishing a unique and prestigious presence in the Cuban market.
Solis Le Clairac’s choice to align with El Encanto was not merely a business transaction but a strategic move that reflected a deep connection between the two entities. It was rumored that Solis Le Clairac also owned the El Encanto store, a claim that, if true, would underscore a remarkable synergy between the Parisian perfumery and the Havana establishment. This ownership would have facilitated a seamless integration of Solis Le Clairac's exclusive fragrances into the store’s luxurious inventory, enhancing the brand's visibility and appeal among Havana’s elite clientele.
By 1946, Solis Le Clairac's perfumes continued to be a staple at El Encanto, demonstrating the enduring success and exclusivity of their partnership. The ongoing presence of Solis Le Clairac’s products at El Encanto was a testament to the quality and desirability of the perfumes, as well as the strong business relationship between the French perfume house and the Cuban store. This exclusive arrangement not only reinforced Solis Le Clairac’s international prestige but also cemented El Encanto’s reputation as a purveyor of fine fragrances and luxury goods.
The perfumes of Le Clairac:
- 1932 For Ever
- 1934 Forbidden Love
- 1934 Kismaju
- 1934 Nuit Espagnole (Spanish Night, Noche Espagnola)
- 1935 Le No. 5
- 1930 Toujours et Toi
- 1930 Jasmin
- 1930 C'Est Pour Vous
- 1940 Le Clairac No. 85
This pair of Le Clairac Czech cut crystal perfume bottles, dating back to the 1930s, exemplifies the elegance and craftsmanship of the Art Deco period. The bottles, retailed by El Encanto in Havana and Paris, feature a distinctive clear Czech glass design that captures the geometric precision and sleek lines characteristic of the era. Each bottle stands at an impressive 8.5 inches tall and measures 4 inches wide, showcasing a substantial presence that reflects the opulence and sophistication of early 20th-century fragrance packaging.
The cut crystal work on these bottles is a testament to the skillful artistry of Czech glassmakers, known for their intricate and refined techniques. The geometric patterns and clarity of the glass not only highlight the bottles’ luxurious appeal but also align with the prevailing Art Deco aesthetic, which favored bold shapes and luminous materials.
An original label on one of the bottles confirms its association with El Encanto, adding a historical layer to its provenance. However, the specific scent that these bottles originally contained remains unknown. The mystery surrounding the fragrance adds to the allure of the bottles, hinting at the exclusive and possibly rare perfumes that Le Clairac might have offered during this period. Despite the absence of detailed scent information, the beauty and historical significance of these bottles make them a captivating piece of perfume history and Art Deco design.
For Ever:
The For Ever perfume, launched in 1932, is presented in a striking cube-shaped bottle that embodies the elegance and sophistication of the era. The bottle's design features opaque green glass, which imparts a sense of understated luxury and timelessness. Its geometric cube shape adds a modern touch to its classic appeal, reflecting the Art Deco fascination with clean lines and symmetrical forms.
The bottle is topped with a round stopper cover, also made of black glass, which contrasts beautifully with the green glass of the bottle. The black stopper not only serves a functional purpose by sealing the perfume but also enhances the visual impact of the design with its sleek, polished finish. Black enamel detailing is applied to the bottle, adding a refined touch and accentuating its luxurious appearance. The labeling on the bottle, carefully applied, signifies its exclusive availability at the El Encanto shop in Cuba, adding to the bottle's unique charm and historical significance.
Standing at just 2 5/8 inches tall, the cube-shaped bottle is compact yet exudes a substantial presence due to its bold design and high-quality materials. The rarity of this perfume bottle today makes it a coveted piece among collectors, reflecting the enduring allure of its design and the exclusive nature of the For Ever fragrance.
Kismaju:
The perfume Kismaju, launched in 1934, was a creation of Le Clairac that drew its name from a port city in southern Somalia, evoking a sense of exotic allure and international sophistication. This fragrance was presented in a striking Art Deco bottle, which exemplifies the bold and geometric design language of the period. The bottle was available in two distinct forms: clear and yellow Czech crystal, each featuring an Art Deco stepped shape that adds a sense of architectural elegance.
The bottle’s design is accentuated by black enameled stripes, which provide a dramatic contrast to the crystal's clarity and vibrant hue. The matching stopper is similarly adorned with these black stripes, ensuring a cohesive and refined look. The stopper is intaglio molded with the name "Le Clairac," underscoring the perfume's prestigious origin and adding a touch of authenticity to its luxurious presentation.
Kismaju was offered in two sizes, measuring 5 inches and 6.5 inches tall. The varying sizes allowed for versatility in presentation, catering to different preferences and needs. The use of Czech crystal and the Art Deco design elements made each bottle not only a vessel for the perfume but also a collectible item, cherished for its craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.
In the 1935 issues of Harper's Bazaar, Kismaju was highlighted as a notable offering from El Encanto's perfume department, described as "delicious" and presented in a "particularly handsome bottle." The magazine emphasized the perfume’s ability to reflect the "fascinating spirit and eternal mystery" of India, suggesting that it was exquisitely suited to the tastes of distinguished women of the time. Kismaju was portrayed as a treasure within the realm of luxury and exclusivity, available at El Encanto, which was celebrated as a premier destination for rare perfumes and exquisite goods from around the world.
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"Kismaju" lotion bottles, made in France. One on left stands 5" tall and the other one measures about 5.75" tall.
Forbidden Love:
Launched in 1934, the perfume Forbidden Love was presented in an exquisite pink Czech cut crystal bottle that epitomizes the opulence and artistry of the Art Deco period. The bottle is designed in a striking diamond shape, a geometric form that reflects the era's fascination with bold and angular aesthetics. The use of pink Czech crystal adds a touch of romantic elegance, imbuing the bottle with a warm, delicate hue that enhances its luxurious appeal.
The bottle features a pedestal foot, which elevates the design and provides a stable base while contributing to the overall sophistication of the presentation. The diamond-shaped stopper complements the bottle's unique form and is fitted with an intaglio mold that bears the name "Le Clairac." This detail not only reinforces the perfume's prestigious origin but also adds a layer of craftsmanship and authenticity to the bottle.
Measuring 6 inches in height and 3.25 inches in width, the Forbidden Love bottle stands as a prominent piece, combining functional utility with decorative flair. Its dimensions allow it to serve as both a practical container for the fragrance and a decorative object of art. The pink crystal, diamond cut, and pedestal base work together to create a visually captivating item that reflects the luxury and elegance of its time, making Forbidden Love a standout example of early 20th-century perfume packaging.
Nuit Espagnole:
The arched shape of the bottle, combined with the hobnailed stopper, lends a distinctive visual appeal that reflects the Art Deco aesthetic. This design, with its graceful curves and decorative stopper, was not only functional but also an artful statement in perfume packaging. Interestingly, this bottle was also used for another Le Clairac perfume, Amour Espagnole, highlighting its versatile and timeless design.
In the 1934 edition of Harper's Bazaar, Nuit Espagnole was noted alongside other prestigious perfumes like Lanvin’s Scandal and My Sin. The magazine’s mention reflected the allure and high regard for El Encanto's perfume offerings, with Nuit Espagnole specifically praised for its evocative name and luxurious appeal. The reference to the perfume as a surprise gift further emphasized its status as a coveted and sophisticated choice.
By 1936, Nuit Espagnole continued to be celebrated for its enchanting qualities, with Travels magazine describing it as embodying "starlit Spanish nights" and "tropical moons." This portrayal enhanced the perfume's mystique, suggesting that its subtle fragrance evoked a sense of languorous, romantic evenings. The magazine noted that Nuit Espagnole was exclusively available at El Encanto on the continent, underscoring its rarity and the exclusive nature of its distribution.
No. 5:
Le Clairac's No. 5, a fragrance distinguished by its orange blossom scent, was introduced with a design that matched its refined and sophisticated aroma. The perfume was housed in a distinctive pyramidal bottle, a shape that reflects both elegance and geometric precision. The pyramid form, with its sleek, clean lines, emphasizes the perfume's high-quality and artisanal craftsmanship.
The bottle is topped with a ball-shaped stopper, which adds a touch of modernity and simplicity to the design. This stopper, while straightforward in shape, serves as a perfect counterpoint to the intricate geometry of the pyramidal bottle, ensuring that the presentation is both striking and functional.
In Harper's Bazaar, No. 5 was highlighted as a must-have for travelers, particularly those on winter cruises stopping in Havana. The magazine praised the perfume’s smart and appealing scent, describing it as something that any woman would love. The endorsement from Harper's Bazaar underlines the perfume's chic and desirable nature, reflecting the high regard in which it was held and its esteemed status among the sophisticated offerings of El Encanto. The combination of its unique bottle design and the alluring orange blossom fragrance made No. 5 a standout product in Le Clairac’s collection, representing both luxury and refined taste.
C'est Pour Vous:
The name C'est Pour Vous is French and translates to "It's For You" in English. This name suggests a sense of personal dedication and exclusivity, implying that the perfume is a special gift or gesture meant specifically for the recipient. It conveys a feeling of intimacy and care, highlighting the idea that the fragrance is crafted with the recipient's preferences and enjoyment in mind. The name enhances the allure of the perfume by suggesting that it is a thoughtful and cherished offering.
C'est Pour Vous by Le Clairac, launched as an exciting oriental perfume for women, was designed to captivate with both its fragrance and its packaging. The perfume was presented in a square, clear crystal bottle that embodies a sense of elegance and sophistication. The square shape of the bottle provides a geometric, modern look, while the clarity of the crystal showcases the purity and quality of the perfume inside.
The bottle is topped with a flat, rectangular glass stopper that complements its clean, geometric lines. This stopper not only secures the perfume but also adds to the bottle's sleek and minimalist aesthetic. The combination of the clear crystal and the rectangular stopper creates a refined and polished appearance, reflecting the luxurious nature of the fragrance.
C'est Pour Vous is characterized by its oriental scent, which suggests a blend of exotic and captivating notes, adding an element of mystery and allure to the perfume. The choice of a clear crystal bottle allows the rich, deep hues of the fragrance to be visible, enhancing its visual appeal. The straightforward design of the bottle, with its square form and flat stopper, aligns with the understated elegance of the early 20th century while making a bold statement about the perfume's sophistication and quality.
Toujours et Toi:
The name Toujours et Toi is French, and it translates to "Always and You" in English. This name suggests a sense of enduring affection or commitment, conveying the idea that the perfume is meant to be a lasting and intimate part of one's life. It evokes a feeling of timelessness and personal connection, fitting for a fragrance designed to be both memorable and cherished. The name reflects the enduring nature of both the scent and the sentiment behind it.
Toujours et Toi was presented in a striking triangular crystal bottle, designed to evoke a sense of both elegance and modernity. The triangular shape of the bottle introduces a dynamic geometric form, distinguishing it from more conventional round or square perfume bottles. This bold design choice adds a touch of avant-garde sophistication, making the bottle a standout piece in any collection.
The bottle is topped with a flattened stopper that complements its unique shape. This stopper is molded with a floral pattern, which adds a delicate and intricate touch to the otherwise streamlined design of the bottle. The floral motif on the stopper not only enhances the visual appeal but also aligns with the romantic and timeless qualities often associated with perfumes of this era.
The clear crystal of the bottle allows the rich, nuanced hues of the perfume to be visible, creating an interplay of light and color that highlights the fragrance's luxurious nature. The combination of the triangular form and the ornate floral stopper makes Toujours et Toi a sophisticated example of early 20th-century perfume design, reflecting both innovation in form and a commitment to detailed craftsmanship. This bottle design serves as a testament to the elegance and artistry of its time, making it a cherished item for perfume enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Jasmin:
The perfume Jasmin was elegantly presented in a bottle designed by Julien Viard, showcasing a distinctive ribbed, melon-shaped form crafted from clear glass. This design element imbues the bottle with a textured, three-dimensional quality, reminiscent of the intricacies of melon skin. The bottle's clear glass allows the light to play through, highlighting the purity and sophistication of the perfume within.
The bottle is adorned with a flat, circular stopper made from jadeite green glass, which provides a striking contrast to the clear body. The jadeite green stopper adds a touch of color and refinement, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the bottle. Complementing this design, the neck of the bottle is decorated with jadeite green glass beads that hang delicately from the baudruchage, or sealing cord. These beads add an extra layer of detail and elegance, creating a harmonious balance with the bottle's other elements.
In addition to the clear glass version, the bottle for Jasmin was also available in opaque black glass, reflecting the versatility of Viard's design. The black glass version, used for Best & Co.'s 1923 perfume Qui m'aime?, further underscores the bottle's adaptability and timeless appeal. Standing at 2.25 inches tall with a diameter of 2.35 inches, the Jasmin bottle is compact yet striking, embodying both craftsmanship and elegance.
The design of the bottle and its accessories, as described in Christie Mayer Lefkowith's Masterpieces of the Perfume Industry, demonstrates the high level of artistry and attention to detail characteristic of Viard’s work, making it a notable example of early 20th-century perfume packaging.
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El Encanto department store in Havana, Cuba.
On April 13, 1961, a catastrophic fire ravaged El Encanto de La Habana, one of the most iconic establishments in Central America. The blaze, triggered by the explosion of several bombs, resulted in the complete destruction of the store, a loss felt deeply throughout the region. El Encanto had long been a cherished institution in Havana, renowned for its luxurious offerings and its status as a symbol of elegance and cultural significance.
The origins of El Encanto trace back to 1888 when it was founded by brothers Bernard and Pepe Solis as a fabric store. Their enterprise quickly gained a reputation for quality and sophistication, setting the stage for its future prominence. In 1900, the Solis brothers expanded their business through a partnership with Entrialgo, a Spanish company. This strategic alliance led to a rebranding of the store as Solis and Co. Entrialgo El Encanto, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
The store's evolution from a fabric shop to a premier retailer of perfumes, luxury goods, and other fine items reflects its ability to adapt and grow in response to changing times and tastes. The fire that consumed El Encanto in 1961 was not just a physical loss but a cultural blow, erasing a landmark that had been an integral part of Havana's social and commercial landscape for decades. The destruction of El Encanto marked the end of an era for the city, leaving behind a legacy of elegance and a void that would be hard to fill.
images: ebay seller collect-4-fun!
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