Padisha by Weil c1922

Padisha by Weil: launched in 1922, as a gift to special clients. It was later relaunched  for public sale in 1947.

Éscarmouche by Jean Desprez c1949

In 1949, the launch of the perfume "Éscarmouche" by Jean Desprez occurred in a period marked by the aftermath of World War II and the beginnings of the Cold War. Europe was in the process of rebuilding, and there was a palpable sense of cultural and societal shifts. France, in particular, was experiencing a resurgence in art, fashion, and literature, with Paris reasserting its role as a global center of creativity and luxury.

Jean Desprez, a perfumer known for his avant-garde approach and bold compositions, chose the name "Éscarmouche" for his new fragrance. The word "Éscarmouche" originates from French and refers to a skirmish or a minor battle, typically of a verbal or physical nature. It connotes a sense of spirited conflict or engagement, often in a playful or romantic context.

The choice of "Éscarmouche" as a perfume name could be interpreted in several ways. Firstly, it suggests a perfume that evokes a sense of adventure, intrigue, and perhaps even flirtation. The name itself is exotic and evocative, appealing to individuals who seek something beyond the ordinary in their fragrance choices.

Those who related to a perfume named "Éscarmouche" might be drawn to its promise of excitement and drama. It could resonate with individuals who see perfume not just as a scent, but as a statement or an accessory to their personal narrative. The response to such a perfume would likely be one of curiosity and a desire to experience its olfactory journey, expecting it to match the boldness and allure implied by its name.

Etourdissant by Jean Desprez c1939

In 1939, the year Etourdissant by Jean Desprez was launched, the world was on the brink of profound change. Europe was descending into the chaos of World War II, marking a tumultuous period of uncertainty and shifting societal norms. Despite the looming conflict, the world of fashion and fragrance continued to thrive as an escape and expression of luxury and elegance.

Jean Desprez's choice of the name "Etourdissant" for his perfume carries significant meaning. "Etourdissant" is a French word that translates to "dazzling" or "bewildering" in English. It derives from the verb "étourdir," which means "to dazzle" or "to stun." This choice of name reflects a desire to capture attention and evoke a sense of awe and wonder, qualities highly sought after in a perfume during this glamorous era.

In the context of 1939, "Etourdissant" would have been a bold and evocative name for a perfume. It speaks directly to the desire for opulence and allure amidst the uncertainty of the times. Those who related to a perfume called "Etourdissant" would likely be individuals seeking escape from the harsh realities of war, drawn to the promise of luxury and the transformative power of fragrance.

Votre Main by Jean Desprez c1939

In 1939, the year "Votre Main" was launched by Jean Desprez, Europe and the world were on the brink of World War II. The late 1930s marked a tumultuous period of rising tensions, political upheaval, and economic instability. France, where Jean Desprez was based, was particularly affected by the looming threat of war, which would soon engulf the continent. It was a time of uncertainty and change, with cultural and societal norms undergoing shifts amidst the backdrop of global conflict.

Jean Desprez chose the name "Votre Main" for their perfume, a phrase that translates to "your hand" in French. This name carries a sense of intimacy and personal connection. In French, the word "main" not only refers to the physical hand but also metaphorically represents touch, connection, and personal expression. By naming the perfume "Votre Main," Desprez aimed to evoke a sense of personal closeness and elegance, suggesting a fragrance that could become intimately associated with its wearer.

"Votre Main" would have appealed to individuals who appreciated sophistication, refinement, and the artistry of fragrance. In the context of 1939, amidst the uncertainties of war, a perfume named "Votre Main" would likely have resonated with those seeking moments of beauty and luxury amid challenging times. It would have been seen as a personal indulgence, a small but meaningful luxury that offered a sense of comfort and elegance amidst the turmoil of the era.

Ambre de Delhi by Babani c1921

Ambre de Delhi by Babani: launched in 1921. Subtitled the "Breath of Love" and Parfum de Hindou. It was designed to be used to perfume furs as well as cigarettes, and to be used in perfume lamps. It was also available in a face powder.

Amour Supreme by Elizabeth Paris c1947

"SPECIALLY DESIGNED CASE FOR ELIZABETH PARIS" A specially designed case to hold a perfume called "Amour Supreme" is admired by a young Parisian. Both the case, of navy blue shagreen lined with white moire, and the Bohemian crystal bottles, were designed by Norman Alberman. This will be the gift of Lady Nada Milford Haven, aunt of Lt. Philip Mountbatten, to Princess Elizabeth on the occasion of her marriage. Alberman is the noted perfumer who spent five years in a Nazi prison camp. 10/27/1947."

The perfume was made for Queen Elizabeth II, who was at the time still only a princess, but married Philip Mountbatten. According to history.com, "she paid for her wedding dress with ration coupons.
Princess Elizabeth married her third cousin Philip Mountbatten, formerly prince of Greece and Denmark, on November 20, 1947. Held during the postwar recovery years, their wedding was a relatively understated affair, at least compared to the lavish union of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in July 1981. With austerity measures still in effect, Elizabeth had to save up ration coupons to purchase the material for her wedding dress, an ivory satin gown designed by Norman Hartnell and encrusted with 10,000 white pearls."

Looking at the perfume atomizer in the center, it appears it is fitted with Marcel Franck hardware.

Elizabeth and her new husband Philip pose on their wedding day. (Credit: Keystone-France/Gamma-Keystone via Getty Images)

 

Half Doll Lamps with Mirrors c1920s

While browsing half dolls on the internet, I came across some very interesting examples. I enjoy half dolls that have a little more going for them than just being the handle to a brush or topping a pincushion or perfume bottle. These are gorgeous and may be dubbed the Spanish Dancer type.


Half Doll #1:
Amazing Half doll most likely of German origin. She is of the highest quality. She has her original silk dress that has some minor damage. Her wire frame served once a light bulb and was electrified to be a lamp. She no longer has her electrical components. The doll stands almost 11" tall. The original beveled mirror measures 6.5 x 4.5". Handmade French ribbonwork and metallic passementerie decorate the mirror. This doll has had one of her arms broken, and is not in her original pose.

all photos shown above are from ebay seller gypsy 5961.

Half Doll #2:

Lovely vintage 1920s half doll with original wire frame, clothing and mirror. Figure looks exactly the one shown in the previous photos.

all photos from icollector

Here is the same doll without a costume, wire lamp frame or mirror. She has finely detailed facial features and piano fingers. She is depicted in a very graceful pose with both arms modeled away from her body, 

wearing a light puce bodice, beaded necklace, dangling earrings and bangle bracelets on each arm . She has glossy black hair pulled to the back in a low chignon, her  large brown eyes are delicately outlined in black. 

She is a of a large size measuring 5 1/4" high (13 cm) and 6 1/" (16.5 cm) across. 

Marked on the back with impressed model number 6359. 

photos from ebay seller olwright1

Black Magic by Bombi c1945

Black Magic by The House of Bombi, New York perfume distributor: launched in 1945. This has been discontinued since the 1960s.

Iris Gris by Jacques Fath c1947

Iris Gris by Jacques Fath: launched in 1947 and originally created by Vincent Roubert.