Launched in 1928 and trademarked in the United States in 1931, Antilope by Weil emerged during a transformative period in perfumery and fashion. The Weil brothers—Marcel, Jacques, and Alfred—had already established themselves as purveyors of luxury through their fur company, Les Fourrures Weil, founded in Paris in 1892. Known for their impeccable craftsmanship, the Weils catered to a clientele that demanded both refinement and innovation. Their expansion into perfumery in 1927 was a natural progression, as they sought to enhance the sensory experience of their furs with scents that would complement their warmth and texture.
The name Antilope was a fitting choice for this perfume, reflecting both the Weils’ use of antelope skin in their designs and the spirit of agility, grace, and untamed beauty embodied by the animal itself. The word “Antilope” is derived from the French spelling of "antelope," pronounced "ahn-tee-LOHP". It evokes imagery of swift movement across vast landscapes, the soft sleekness of a rare hide, and the inherent elegance of nature. In a fragrance, this name suggests a composition that is fluid yet strong, sophisticated yet free-spirited—qualities that resonated deeply with the modern woman of the late 1920s.
The perfume’s launch coincided with the final years of the Roaring Twenties, an era marked by cultural dynamism, artistic exploration, and a shift toward modernism. Women were embracing newfound freedoms, shedding restrictive corsets in favor of sleek silhouettes, and adopting a more confident, independent persona. Fashion was dominated by designers such as Coco Chanel and Jean Patou, who championed fluid lines and effortless sophistication. Perfume trends followed suit, moving toward more complex, refined compositions. Aldehydic fragrances—such as the groundbreaking Chanel No. 5 (1921)—had already redefined the olfactory landscape, and Antilope followed in this tradition while carving out its own distinctive identity.
