Conquete by Lancome c1935

Conquête by Lancôme, launched in 1935, emerged during a tumultuous and transformative era known as the Great Depression. This period was marked by widespread economic hardship, yet also saw a remarkable flourishing of creativity and escapism in popular culture. Amidst the struggles, there was a longing for romance, adventure, and heroism, which found expression in various forms of media, including films and fashion that often romanticized the medieval era, knights, and chivalric conquests.

The choice of the name "Conquête" for this perfume is particularly evocative and fitting for the time. The word "conquête" pronounced as "Kohn-ket" is French for "conquest," a term rich with historical and emotional resonance. It conjures images of knights, gallant battles, and the pursuit of noble goals, themes that were incredibly appealing during the Great Depression. These themes offered an escape from the harsh realities of daily life, providing a sense of grandeur and timeless elegance.

Tendres Nuits by Lancome c1935

"Tendres Nuits" by Lancôme, launched in 1935 during the Great Depression, was a remarkable fragrance that offered an unexpected and delightful combination of exotic fruits and a fresh lavender opening. This blend of scents likely provided a sense of surprise and intrigue, aligning perfectly with the romantic and escapist themes prevalent in that era.

During the Great Depression, gardens and romantic themes became important symbols of hope and beauty. Films like "Gone with the Wind" and "Camille" captivated audiences with their lush, idyllic settings and poignant love stories, providing a much-needed escape from the harsh realities of daily life. Fashion of the time also leaned towards elegance and grace, with flowing gowns and floral patterns evoking a sense of serenity and timelessness.

The name "Tendres Nuits," which translates to "Tender Nights" in English, captures the essence of romance and gentle evenings under the stars. This name was likely chosen by Lancôme to evoke images of soft, intimate moments, offering a sense of calm and serenity. The concept of tender nights suggested a stark contrast to the daytime struggles of the Great Depression, promising a world of tranquility and romance.

Women of the time would have been particularly drawn to "Tendres Nuits" for its promise of elegance and escape. The unexpected sweetness of exotic fruits paired with the freshness of lavender would have provided a unique and alluring fragrance experience. This perfume would have allowed women to embody a sense of romance and tenderness, transporting them to a world of gentle beauty and connection.

The imagery and emotions evoked by "Tendres Nuits" are rich and vivid. The scent conjures moonlit gardens, the rustling of leaves in the night breeze, and the embrace of a loved one. These images blend nostalgia with a dreamlike quality, offering a comforting and alluring sensory experience. The unique combination of exotic fruits and lavender opening made "Tendres Nuits" stand out, capturing a blend of emotional depth and sensory pleasure.

Interpreted in the context of the 1930s, "Tendres Nuits" would have been seen as a promise of love and comfort during a time of widespread uncertainty. The fragrance spoke to the universal desire for tenderness and connection, making it an enduringly beautiful choice. Women of the era, facing the challenges of the Great Depression, would have embraced "Tendres Nuits" as a fragrant reminder of the enduring beauty and romance that could still be found in the world around them.

Peut-Etre by Lancome c1937

In 1937, the launch of Lancôme's perfume "Peut-Etre" occurred during a period fraught with contrasting themes of uncertainty and romance, set against the backdrop of the Great Depression. This era was marked by economic hardship and social change, yet amidst this turbulence, there was a pervasive fascination with indecisive romantic narratives in literature, theater, and film. Films of the time often depicted complex relationships and unresolved emotions, mirroring the uncertainties and hopes of the audience during a tumultuous period in history.

The choice of the name "Peut-Etre," which means "perhaps" or "maybe" in French, was likely intended to capture the essence of this uncertain romantic sentiment. The phrase suggests a sense of possibility, hinting at potential outcomes and leaving room for imagination and aspiration. For women of the time, a perfume named "Peut-Etre" would have resonated with their own desires for romance, offering a subtle allure and a touch of mystery.

Perfume, often seen as a personal indulgence and a symbol of femininity, would have been embraced as a means of expressing femininity and sophistication in challenging times. The name "Peut-Etre" itself evokes images of whispered secrets, fleeting glances, and the tantalizing promise of what could be. It carries a poetic ambiguity that invites interpretation and personal connection, making it a compelling choice for a perfume that seeks to evoke emotions and stir the imagination.

Bocages by Lancome c1935

Bocages by Lancôme is a classic fragrance that was introduced in 1935. The name "Bocages" translates to "Groves" in French, evoking images of lush, green landscapes filled with trees and shrubs. This fragrance reflects the natural and serene qualities associated with such environments. Lancôme, a renowned French luxury perfumes and cosmetics house, has a long history of creating elegant and sophisticated scents, and Bocages is a part of this esteemed legacy.

Tropiques by Lancome c1935

Launched in 1935, Tropiques was one of the very first fragrances introduced by Armand Petitjean, the visionary founder of Lancôme. Petitjean was deeply inspired by the tropical splendor of Bahia, Brazil, a vibrant port city teeming with lush vegetation, intoxicating blossoms, and the warm embrace of sun-drenched shores. The name Tropiques, derived from the French language, is pronounced troh-peek and translates to "tropics" in English. It instantly evokes visions of lush rainforests, golden beaches, and sultry, humid nights, filled with the mysterious and heady scent of exotic flowers, ripe fruits, and warm, resinous woods.

The launch of Tropiques in 1935 coincided with a fascinating period in history. The interwar years, often referred to as the Art Deco era, were marked by glamour, escapism, and a fascination with faraway lands. The world was recovering from the Great Depression, and despite economic hardships, there was a thirst for luxury, adventure, and exoticism. International travel, though still reserved for the elite, had become a symbol of sophistication, and tropical destinations such as Cuba, Brazil, and the French colonies were romanticized in fashion, film, and literature.

In perfumery, oriental and floral compositions were thriving, with rich, opulent scents dominating the market. Women sought fragrances that were both sensual and transportive, and Tropiques—with its blend of heady florals, balsamic resins, and warm spices—perfectly captured this desire. Its spicy floral oriental character was an embodiment of the era’s daring femininity, reflecting the confident, modern woman who embraced both elegance and sensuality.

Poeme by Lancome c1995

Poéme by Lancôme: launched in 1995. Created by Jacques Cavallier.

Tresor by Lancome c1952

Trésor by Lancôme: launched in 1952. The name means "Treasure" in French.

Magie Noire by Lancome c1978

Magie Noire by Lancôme: launched in 1978. Created by Gérard Goupy. It was the first new fragrance from Lancome for a decade and has earned a place amongst its beloved classics.

Sikkim by Lancome c1971

Sikkim by Lancome: launched in 1971, and created by Robert Gonnon.

Envol by Lancome c1957

Envol by Lancome: launched in 1957. Created by Armand Petitjean (some sources note that Jean Hervelein composed it).

Envol by Ted Lapidus c1980

Envol by Ted Lapidus: launched in 1980, in USA by 1981. Envol means "flight" in French. "I gave it that light name, spacious and airy, because it is the perfume of space, of night and time,” Ted Lapidus.

Collecting Opalescent Glass Commercial Perfume Bottles

In this guide, I will introduce you to the wonderful world of commercial perfume bottles made up of opalescent glass. The allure of these bottles lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in the history and craftsmanship behind them. Most of the bottles in this guide date to the 1920s and 1930s period.

Starting a collection with a specific focus, such as opalescent glass perfume bottles, can add a unique dimension to your hobby. It provides a clear direction and allows you to curate a cohesive and visually stunning collection.

When embarking on this journey, consider exploring various sources such as antique shops, flea markets, online auctions, and specialized collector forums. You may encounter a diverse range of designs, from simple and utilitarian to ornate and intricately decorated bottles.

It's essential to educate yourself about the different styles, manufacturers, and historical context surrounding these bottles. This knowledge will not only enhance your appreciation for the pieces you acquire but also help you make informed decisions when assessing their value and authenticity.

As your collection grows, documenting each acquisition with details such as the maker, design characteristics, and acquisition date can enrich your understanding of the evolving trends in perfume bottle design and production.

Additionally, connecting with fellow collectors can be a rewarding aspect of the hobby. Exchanging insights, sharing discoveries, and participating in community events or exhibitions can deepen your engagement with the subject and foster meaningful connections with like-minded enthusiasts.

Remember, collecting is as much about the joy of discovery and appreciation as it is about the tangible objects themselves. So, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opalescent glass perfume bottles, and let your collection reflect your passion and individual style!

Kypre by Lancôme c1935

Kypre by Lancôme: launched in 1935. Created by Armand Petitjean. Lancôme launched its first five fragrances in 1935 at the World's Fair in Brussels - Tendre Nuit, Bocages, Conquete, Kypre and Tropiques.

Lancome Opalescent Glass Perfume Presentations

"Lancôme introduced "Melisande" in 1954, a stunning figural bottle shaped like a standing lady crafted from pink-tinted opalescent glass. This luxurious presentation was utilized for various perfumes and was the brainchild of Georges Delhomme.

The fragrance was "...contained in a frosted crystal bottle representing the beautiful Melisande with long hair: art object exquisitely.."

photo by Rago Arts

In 1958, to commemorate the launch of Sputnik, Lancôme unveiled two limited edition perfume presentations designed by Georges Delhomme, named "Spoutnik."

The first was a blue-tinted opalescent glass moon-faced purse flacon, created for the perfume Magie. This unique bottle design was also utilized for other Lancôme fragrances. Only 100 of these bottles were manufactured.

photo by Perfume Bottles Auctions

The second bottle took the shape of a crescent moon with a smiling face, also crafted from blue-tinted opalescent glass. It was affixed to a cobalt glass base. This design, too, was a limited edition, with only 100 examples produced, and it was utilized for various Lancôme perfumes.

photo from flickr

Due to their rarity and historical significance, these Lancôme perfume presentations designed by Georges Delhomme are highly sought after by collectors. Their scarcity, coupled with their unique and exquisite designs, often makes them prized items at auctions, commanding high prices from enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Collectors value such pieces not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their connection to a specific moment in history and the artistry behind their creation.

Climat by Lancome c1967

Climat by Lancôme: launched in 1967. Created by by Gerard Goupil of Robertet Perfumers. This fragrance takes its name from the well-known eponymous novel by French author André Maurois. The English translation of “Climats de Lancome” is "ambience of Lancome.”