Eisenberg

Eisenberg of Chicago, IL, was a renowned name in the American fashion and beauty industry, known for its glamorous costume jewelry, clothing, and, by 1941, an equally sophisticated line of perfumes and cosmetics. The company’s offerings were exclusive, with its products available only in select department stores across major American cities. This approach ensured that each city had a single retailer carrying Eisenberg's complete collection, adding an air of exclusivity and prestige to the brand.

The fragrance line included four custom scents, each packaged with an eye for style and elegance that matched the brand’s reputation. The perfumes were designed to be as refined and fashionable as Eisenberg’s jewelry and garments, creating a complete sensory experience for customers. The company’s fragrances, along with its luxurious cosmetics, were a perfect complement to the upscale image Eisenberg cultivated through its fashion and accessories, catering to a clientele that valued sophistication, exclusivity, and high-quality craftsmanship.

The perfumes of Eisenberg:

• 1938 847-A 
• 1938 847-B  
• 1938 Little Lady
• 1941 Startling (a heady, dramatic evening scent)
• 1941 Excitement (fresh, airy, sparkling aldehydic daytime scent)
• 1941 Daring (a brisk, cool sporty scent)
• 1942 Stirring (a light, sweet, nostalgic scent)
• 1944 Enticing (a piquant, sultry scent)

Parfum 847:

The perfume "847" was a unique creation, its name chosen to reflect the Eisenberg Company’s address at 847 West Jackson Boulevard in Chicago. Interestingly, the selection of this name went beyond mere practicality; it was steeped in numerological significance. According to a newspaper article, a prominent numerologist analyzed the name and explained its mystical properties. Breaking down the digits, 8 plus 4 plus 7 equaled 19; adding 1 and 9 produced 10. By dropping the zero (as numerologists often disregard ciphers), the result was the "magic number" 1. In numerology, the number 1 symbolizes distinction, individuality, and fashion, and it is believed to herald a prosperous new beginning—qualities that the creators sought to imbue in their fragrance.

Crafted with expertise in Paris, the perfume was formulated to meet the specifications of its creator, ensuring an impeccable balance of artistry and quality. "847" came in two distinct variations: 847-A, described as deep, full, rich, and exotic, and 847-B, a softer, lighter, and daintier counterpart. The fragrances were distilled in France, emphasizing their refined European origins, and then shipped to the United States for distribution.

The perfume’s presentation was as noteworthy as its composition. Each fragrance was housed in a frosted glass bottle designed to resemble a woman in a hooped skirt, a silhouette referred to as the "Dressmaker" flacon. This elegant design exuded sophistication and complemented the fragrance’s allure. The bottle was offered in three sizes, catering to a variety of preferences and ensuring its accessibility to a wider audience.

The perfume "847" faced an untimely demise during the disruptions of the Second World War. Importation restrictions imposed during the conflict severely impacted the availability of key ingredients and the distinctive frosted glass bottles, both of which were sourced from France. Without access to these vital elements, the production of the perfume was halted, and the fragrance could no longer be manufactured or marketed effectively.

The last known advertisement for "847" appeared in 1941, marking the end of its commercial presence. Since then, the perfume has become a relic of a bygone era. Any surviving example of the iconic "847" mannequin-shaped bottle, with its frosted glass design mimicking a woman in a hooped skirt, is now considered an exceptional rarity. Collectors and enthusiasts of vintage perfumes regard these bottles as treasures, both for their scarcity and for their historical and aesthetic significance.

The 847 line included two moods  designed to enhance the dresses of Eisenberg - 847-A, a full, rich, exotic scent, and 847-B, a lighter, daintier version. Both of these fragrances come in enchanting bottles formed in the shape of a smartly dressed woman wearing a full-skirted period frock. The frosted glass bottle is an antebellum styled southern belle, fashioned after Scarlett O'Hara, in a hoop skirt, a popular theme in the late 1930s. The full-skirted period dress in blue, its bust and head forming the stopper. The bottle was available in two sizes.

In addition to the "847" perfume, Eisenberg offered a range of complementary products that expanded the fragrance’s appeal. A purse-sized container was available for convenience, catering to women who wished to carry the scent with them wherever they went. Another notable offering was the sparkling "Aromique" Eau de Cologne, available in two sizes. This version of the fragrance was described as being the color of "melted topaz," adding a visual element of warmth and elegance to its presentation. It was housed in a glass bottle capped with a sleek, silvery top, blending practicality with sophistication.

A 1939 article in Drug & Cosmetic Industry elaborated on the details of this cologne, highlighting its connection to the "847" perfume. The publication described Eisenberg's Aromique 847 as a "fresh, breezy cologne" infused with the same signature fragrance that had made the original perfume so distinctive. The cologne’s bottle featured an etched depiction of the hoop-skirted figurine seen on the perfume’s iconic flacon, tying the two products together through their shared visual identity. Additionally, the Aromique cologne bottle was equipped with a sprinkler top, a thoughtful design choice that enhanced its ease of use and practicality. This attention to detail reinforced Eisenberg's commitment to quality and style across its product line.

Other Eisenberg Perfumes:

Eisenberg expanded its fragrance portfolio with a collection of perfumes intriguingly named Excitement, Enticing, Stirring, and Startling. These perfumes were marketed in collaboration with DuPont, a partnership that likely emphasized innovation and modernity, aligning with DuPont's reputation for cutting-edge developments in materials and technology. This association may have been intended to convey a sense of contemporary sophistication and progressive design, appealing to a forward-thinking audience.

Each perfume in this series had a name that evoked strong emotions and sensory appeal, reflecting Eisenberg’s creative approach to branding. The titles suggested that these fragrances were crafted to capture dynamic experiences and moods, making them highly evocative choices for consumers. While details about their specific compositions or packaging are not widely known, the association with DuPont hints at the possibility of advanced techniques or materials being employed in the presentation or production of these fragrances. This collaboration marked an interesting chapter in Eisenberg’s history, showcasing their willingness to explore innovative partnerships to elevate their brand identity.

 

 

By 1947, Eisenberg had solidified its reputation with a line of four distinguished fragrances—Excitement, Enticing, Stirring, and Startling. These scents were available in multiple formats, including perfume, cologne, and a unique offering: a perfume stick. The solid perfume stick was an innovative product, capturing the essence of the fragrance in a convenient, portable form ideal for on-the-go application. Additionally, Eisenberg introduced another creative touch by perfuming lipstick with the Excitement fragrance, merging beauty and scent in a single product. This dual-purpose item was a stylish and functional innovation, allowing wearers to enjoy a subtle, lingering fragrance with their cosmetics. These offerings highlighted Eisenberg's versatility and forward-thinking approach to luxury perfumer

Startling:

Eisenberg’s Startling perfume was launched in 1941, a year that marked a pivotal moment in global history. The name Startling was likely chosen to capture attention and convey a sense of boldness and drama. The word itself means "causing sudden surprise or alarm," evoking images of unexpected brilliance or awe-inspiring moments. It suggests something striking and memorable, perfectly aligning with the concept of a heady, dramatic evening fragrance that demands to be noticed.

For women of the 1940s, Startling would have resonated as a statement of individuality and confidence. During this time, the world was on the brink of profound change due to World War II, and women were navigating new roles in society, often taking on responsibilities traditionally held by men. A perfume named Startling could have symbolized the boldness required to adapt to these shifts while maintaining an air of elegance and allure. It might also have appealed to the desire for escapism—transporting the wearer to a world of glamour amid the uncertainty of wartime.

The concept of Startling as a scent would likely have been interpreted through rich, opulent ingredients that commanded attention. Aldehydes could have lent a bright, sparkling opening, while lush florals such as tuberose, jasmine, and ylang-ylang conveyed intoxicating sophistication. A dramatic base of amber, musk, and oakmoss would anchor the fragrance, leaving a lasting impression akin to a startling moment that lingers in memory.

Launched during a period of global upheaval, Startling reflected the zeitgeist of its time. In 1941, the United States had not yet entered World War II, but the war was already reshaping lives and industries. The choice of such a striking name for a perfume could have been influenced by the heightened emotions of the era—uncertainty, urgency, and the need for resilience. In this context, Startling might have served as a declaration of strength and glamour, offering women a sense of empowerment and distinction as they navigated an ever-changing world.

• Top notes: aldehydes, bergamot, clove, cardamom. 
• Middle notes: jasmine, rose, ylang ylang, tuberose. 
• Base notes: musk, ambergris, oakmoss, sandalwood, civet, castoreum

Excitement:

Eisenberg’s Excitement, launched in 1941, was aptly named to embody a sense of joy, energy, and anticipation. The word “excitement” conveys a feeling of heightened enthusiasm, something thrilling or exhilarating that stirs emotions and invigorates the spirit. It evokes imagery of bright mornings, spontaneous laughter, and moments of uncontainable happiness—an energizing experience that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Such a name would have resonated strongly with women of the time, offering them a sense of optimism and vitality during an era marked by global uncertainty.

For women in 1941, a perfume called Excitement might have represented a breath of fresh air and a moment of personal indulgence. As the world teetered on the brink of America’s entry into World War II, daily life was beginning to reflect the tensions and adaptations of a changing society. Many women were stepping into new roles in the workforce or preparing for the challenges of wartime rationing and separation from loved ones. A fragrance named Excitement offered a symbolic escape, a chance to embrace a lighter, more carefree identity amidst the growing seriousness of the world stage.

The scent itself mirrored the emotional vibrancy of its name. As a fresh, airy, and sparkling aldehydic daytime fragrance, Excitement would have been designed to uplift the wearer. Aldehydes—a hallmark of elegant, radiant perfumes of the time—created a bright, effervescent opening that sparkled like sunlight. Paired with crisp florals and soft woody notes, the fragrance evoked a sense of breezy sophistication, perfectly suited to the energetic, modern woman.

The choice of the name Excitement in 1941 was also likely influenced by the zeitgeist of the time. Despite the looming war, the name captured a forward-looking spirit, aligning with the resilience and optimism many women sought to embody. It reflected a desire to maintain a sense of normalcy and joy, even as the world shifted around them. In this way, Excitement was more than a perfume—it was a declaration of hope, energy, and the enduring pursuit of beauty and happiness, no matter the circumstances.

• Top notes: aldehydes, lemon, bergamot, neroli. 
• Middle notes: lily of the valley. rose,. orris, jasmine. 
• Base notes: sandalwood, musk, vetiver, oakmoss

Daring:

Daring by Eisenberg, launched in 1941, was a fragrance that embodied boldness and confidence, aptly chosen for its name. The word "daring" evokes a sense of courage, adventure, and risk-taking—a spirit of defiance against the ordinary. It brings to mind images of breaking boundaries, stepping out of comfort zones, and embracing life with a sense of vigor and excitement. The name suggests something that stands out, unafraid to be different or challenge the status quo.

For women in 1941, Daring would have resonated deeply with the cultural and social shifts occurring during that time. The world was on the brink of World War II, and women were increasingly entering the workforce to fill roles traditionally held by men. With the rise of new responsibilities and the growing sense of independence, the notion of being "daring" took on a powerful significance. Women were called upon to be bold and resourceful, navigating a world filled with uncertainty, rationing, and societal change. In this context, a fragrance named Daring would have been a reflection of the strength and resilience required of women in this turbulent era. It spoke to their ability to face challenges head-on with confidence, all while maintaining their elegance and grace.

As a brisk, cool, and sporty scent, Daring would have captured the essence of this newfound independence. The fragrance itself would be sharp and invigorating, with cool, green notes and a fresh, slightly aromatic quality that conveyed energy and vitality. The scent’s brisk nature would evoke the image of a woman walking with purpose, perhaps outdoors, embracing the fresh air and taking on the world with a sense of urgency and ambition. It would be a perfume for those who embodied action, vitality, and strength—perfect for the dynamic woman of the early 1940s.

The name Daring was likely influenced by the broader global context of the time. In the face of a world at war, uncertainty was omnipresent. But amidst this, there was also a call to adapt, to be strong, and to move forward with resolve. The fragrance was a metaphor for this moment of transition—of being brave enough to step into a new role, to break from tradition, and to make a statement. As the world changed, so too did the expectations placed on women, and Daring captured that spirit of courage and transformation, making it a perfect fit for its time.

• Top notes: lemon, lime, mint, galbanum, lily of the valley, freesia
• Middle notes: lavender, juniper berry, clary sage, jasmine, rose, honeysuckle
• Base notes: vetiver, cedar, ambergris, musk

 

Stirring:

Stirring by Eisenberg, launched in 1942, was a fragrance that captured a sense of gentle movement and emotional depth, perfectly aligning with its evocative name. The word "stirring" suggests something that is both subtle and impactful, capable of stirring emotions or memories with a quiet yet profound effect. It evokes images of feelings awakened by a soft breeze or a long-forgotten melody that brings warmth to the heart. The name implies a gentle awakening—something that softly moves or inspires, much like a beloved memory or a tender moment in time.

For women in 1942, Stirring would have connected to the emotional undercurrents of the era. The early 1940s were marked by the intensity of World War II, with women stepping into new roles, whether in the workforce or on the homefront. There was a growing sense of resilience, yet a longing for peace and stability in a turbulent world. In this context, a fragrance called Stirring would have appealed to the quiet strength and emotional depth that women were navigating at the time. It spoke to a sense of nostalgia and longing for simpler, more peaceful times, while also resonating with the emotional complexity of the wartime experience.

As a light, sweet, nostalgic scent, Stirring would likely have featured delicate floral notes like violet, rose, and jasmine, evoking soft memories of spring, love, and youth. These florals would have been paired with powdery, comforting elements like iris and musk, creating a fragrance that was both gentle and emotionally rich. The perfume would have been a balm for women enduring the stress and anxiety of wartime, offering them a moment of personal solace and reflection. Its sweetness and lightness would have conveyed a sense of hope and warmth, a small yet significant comfort amidst the uncertainty of the times.

The name Stirring would also have been interpreted in the context of the period’s cultural atmosphere. While the world was embroiled in conflict, people were still moved by the beauty of life, whether in the small joys of daily routines or in the deep emotional connections with loved ones. The fragrance would have been a subtle reminder of what was worth cherishing—personal connections, memories of peace, and the quiet moments that stir the soul. In a world that was desperately trying to hold onto normalcy, Stirring by Eisenberg would have been a fragrance that offered not just a scent, but an emotional experience that resonated deeply with the women of the time.

• Top notes: violet, lavender, bergamot. 
• Middle notes: rose, jasmine, orris
• Base notes: musk, tonka bean, sandalwood

Enticing:

 

Enticing by Eisenberg, launched in 1944, carries a name that immediately evokes allure and mystery, making it a fitting choice for a perfume designed to capture the essence of femininity in a time of both tension and optimism. The word "enticing" itself means to attract or tempt, often with an irresistible appeal. It suggests something that draws attention, captivates, and lures the senses—qualities that were especially poignant in the 1940s, a time when women were finding new expressions of independence and sensuality after the constraints of wartime.

The name Enticing conjures images of seduction and allure, of a woman who is confident in her power to captivate and charm. It evokes emotions of desire and intrigue, capturing the essence of a woman who is both elegant and daring, yet mysterious. During this period, women had just emerged from the practical, utilitarian needs of World War II and were beginning to embrace more glamorous and sensual forms of self-expression. The name would likely have resonated deeply with women looking for a fragrance that mirrored their evolving roles in society—an expression of strength, allure, and individuality.

As a piquant, sultry scent, Enticing would have been interpreted through its composition—rich in spicy, warm, and exotic notes—capturing the intrigue and sensuality of the fragrance. The scent would have conveyed a powerful presence, with bold, captivating top notes that drew people in, much like the name itself. The combination of spicy florals and warm, oriental undertones would speak to a time when women were encouraged to embrace their sensuality, not shy away from it.

The perfume's release in 1944, during the final years of World War II, would have been influenced by the changing social and cultural landscape of the time. As the war drew to a close, there was a collective longing for pleasure, glamour, and a return to normalcy. Women, many of whom had contributed to the workforce and taken on new responsibilities during the war, were eager to embrace beauty, elegance, and femininity once more. Enticing was not just a fragrance, but a symbol of the renewed possibilities in a world that was rebuilding itself after years of conflict. It spoke to a period of transformation, where femininity was celebrated through elegance, sophistication, and, of course, allure.

In this context, the name Enticing was more than just a marketing choice—it was a reflection of the desires and dreams of women in the 1940s, marking a shift towards a more confident, sensual, and independent sense of self. The perfume would have been an essential accessory for women seeking to capture the magnetic, irresistible charm that the word itself promised.

• Top notes: cinnamon, bergamot, clove.
• Middle notes:  carnation, jasmine, ylang ylang, tuberose, orange blossom, rose. 
• Base notes: sandalwood, musk, ambergris, vanilla, patchouli