Expression by Jacques Fath c1977

Expression by Jacques Fath: launched in 1977. Created by Raymond Chaillan.

Gauloise by Molyneux 1980

The name "Gauloise" for Molyneux's 1980 fragrance is a distinctive choice, deeply rooted in French history and culture. Derived from the word "gaulois", which means "Gaulish" or "of Gaul," and its feminine form "Gauloise", the name evokes images of ancient Gaul—a region historically inhabited by the Celts, known for their fierce independence and rich cultural heritage. This choice of name can be seen as an attempt to invoke a sense of timeless elegance and sophisticated rebellion, capturing a spirit that is both classic and bold.

The word "Gauloise" carries a certain gravitas and historical resonance, reflecting an image of ancient grandeur and cultural depth. To French-speaking women, the term might conjure visions of classical beauty and a storied past, while also implying a certain refined audacity. It suggests a connection to heritage and tradition while celebrating a sense of liberation and individuality. For non-French speakers, the name may not immediately convey its historical meaning but could still evoke an aura of exoticism and sophistication, especially when paired with the perfume’s marketing and presentation.

"The perfume that reflects the legendary French female whose bite can be incredibly sharp"

In the context of the early 1980s, Gauloise emerged at a time when the fragrance industry was witnessing a shift towards more bold and innovative scents. The late 1970s and early 1980s were characterized by a growing trend towards powerful, distinctive perfumes that broke away from the more subdued, floral fragrances of previous decades. Gauloise, created by Giovanni Pampuri and launched in the USA by 1981 under the distribution of Henry Calisher, reflects this trend with its aldehydic floral composition.

One Perfect Rose by La Prairie c1990

One Perfect Rose by La Prairie: launched in 1990. Created by Guy Robert and the PFW essence house.

Dubarry et Cie

Dubarry and Co. (alternatively Dubarry Perfumery) of 81 Brompton Road, London. The company was established in 1917 with a French name and style as the perfume division of The Pill Tablet Standard & amp; amp; Company Ltd, Goldstone Chemical Works, Hove, UK.

The company launched over 70 luxury perfumes presented from 1916-1919, subsequently more sales presentations up to closure in the 1960's.

F Sharp by Faberge c1958

In 1958, amidst an era of elegance and refinement, Fabergé unveiled a fragrance that would redefine luxury: F# by Fabergé. Often misconstrued as a scent tailored exclusively for men, F Sharp transcended gender norms, embodying sophistication and allure that appealed to all.

Contrary to prevailing online narratives, F Sharp was not simply a men's fragrance; it was a symphony of fragrant notes designed to captivate and enthrall. Its unveiling marked a pivotal moment in olfactory history, as Fabergé orchestrated a groundbreaking promotional campaign that married scent with sound.

Parfums de Germaine Lecomte

Paris; a couturier, established house at 9 avenue Matignon in 1924, launched fragrances in 1946.

Gilmar Laboratories , Inc.

 Parker Laboratories, Inc., operating under the name Gilmar Laboratories, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey, made a notable move in the fragrance industry when it filed a trademark application on August 18, 1967, for the names "POT" and "LSD" as potential names for colognes. This decision reflects a bold and innovative marketing strategy that sought to capture the attention of consumers during a transformative era in American culture. The late 1960s was characterized by significant shifts in social norms, particularly among younger generations who were increasingly drawn to counterculture and the burgeoning spirit of freedom and experimentation.

The trademarks for "POT" and "LSD" were granted in 1968, a time when both terms had strong associations with the cultural and social movements of the day. "POT," commonly understood as slang for marijuana, evoked images of relaxation and a laid-back lifestyle, while "LSD," referencing the psychedelic drug, conjured ideas of exploration, heightened consciousness, and the quest for new experiences. By choosing these provocative names, Gilmar Laboratories positioned its colognes to resonate with the rebellious and adventurous spirit of the 1960s, targeting a demographic eager for products that reflected their values and lifestyle.

The decision to trademark these names also indicates an awareness of the marketing potential tied to the cultural zeitgeist. While conventional fragrances often drew upon nature, luxury, or romance, the use of terms associated with drugs and counterculture signified a departure from tradition. This daring approach may have appealed to consumers seeking an authentic connection to the ideals of the time, as well as those intrigued by the novelty and audacity of such names in the perfume industry. Ultimately, Gilmar Laboratories' application for "POT" and "LSD" reflects a unique intersection of commerce and culture during a period marked by experimentation, self-expression, and a redefinition of societal norms.

Buyer Beware! These Poison Bottles Are Not All That They Seem!

 Buyer Beware! These "Poison Bottles" are not all that they seem!

There has been a recent surge in sellers offering unusual antique "poison bottles" at very high prices. In reality, the bottles themselves are genuine antiques, most appear to be scent bottles dating from 1820s-1900 period, however, unscrupulous sellers are affixing newly manufactured "silver" or "gold" plaques to the glass and offering them as authentic "poison bottles". Some of the "poison" plaques may state the "poison" such as "belladonna" or "cyanide."

Some bottles also feature silvery three-dimensional skulls soldered onto the tops of the bottle caps, these skulls just like the plaques, are NOT original to the bottles and have been added recently in order to deceive you into thinking they are improving their "value". You may also encounter double ended bottles with "Poison" on one side and "Antidote" on the other. A variation of this can be seen in some examples of "Cocaine" at one end and "Morphine" at the other. 

These sellers are capitalizing on the public's fascination with all things Victorian, morbid, death related, titillating and unusual. These items may appeal to those interested in Gothic lifestyle or fashion, anyone interested in criminal justice or crime, memento mori, Victorian era customs regarding death or just an unusual "collectible", much in the same regard as the faked "Vampire Killing Kits". These items are modern fantasy items created to fool the public and add perceived "value" to items that would be rather inexpensive without all the tomfoolery. Also included in this genre are scent bottles labeled as "tear catchers," a type of bottle I have already covered in a previous article.

Please don't be fooled into thinking these "poison" bottles are the real deal - yes, they are genuine antique SCENT bottles, but they are NOT "poison" bottles. They have been fraudulently "upcycled" and sellers are trying to convince you that they are rare. They should be regarded simply as "curiosities." 

I have been made aware of a certain etsy seller who is offering these bottles and claiming (without proof) that they came from Queen Victoria's personal physician. An ebay seller located in Bulgaria is selling MANY of these bottles in various types of decor, colors and shapes. I would think that these bottles are originating from this particular seller and being purchased from them and resold by other dealers. This same Bulgarian seller also specializes in manufacturing newly created "memento mori" jewelry and spoons as well as adding onto existing antique jewelry pieces. Common themes are skulls and snakes using both silver and gold. Some of it is beautifully crafted, but unfortunately, not original.

The "poison" bottles range in price from $1000-$3000 per bottle based on decor and style. Most of the bottles are extremely common Victorian scent bottles and would sell normally for $50-$400 without the fraudulently added "upcycling."

Gallery of Faked Poison Bottles:

All of these bottles below have been found online, mostly from one particular ebay seller located in Bulgaria.

Parfums François Villon

Societe Francaise de Parfumerie-Parfums François Villon, a perfume manufacturer and wholesaler was established by S. de Benveniste at 1 rue Lord Byron, Toulouse. The name Francois Villon was based on a well-known French lyric poet who died in about 1485. The company name was trademarked in the USA in 1949.

Pheromone by Marilyn Miglin c1978

Pheromone by Marilyn Miglin: launched in 1978.

In 1978, Pheromone's pure parfum retailed for $200 an ounce, in 1986 it was $300 an ounce, by 1989, it was selling for $325 a ounce, the fragrance was still very popular and costly so by 1991, it crept up to $400 an ounce, in 1998 it reached an astounding $500 an ounce. Today in 2015, it retails for a dizzying price of $600 an ounce on the Marilyn Miglin website.