Cleopatra's Boudoir

Welcome!

Welcome to my unique perfume blog! Here, you'll find detailed, encyclopedic entries about perfumes and companies, complete with facts and photos for easy research. This site is not affiliated with any perfume companies; it's a reference source for collectors and enthusiasts who cherish classic fragrances. My goal is to highlight beloved, discontinued classics and show current brand owners the demand for their revival. Your input is invaluable! Please share why you liked a fragrance, describe its scent, the time period you wore it, any memorable occasions, or what it reminded you of. Did a relative wear it, or did you like the bottle design? Your stories might catch the attention of brand representatives. I regularly update posts with new information and corrections. Your contributions help keep my entries accurate and comprehensive. Please comment and share any additional information you have. Together, we can keep the legacy of classic perfumes alive!

Sunday, March 22, 2015

Mme. A. Girard et Cie

Mme A. Girard et Cie of London, small prestigious company established in the late 19th century.
Established at 182 Regent Street, London and Paris; active in late 1800's and early 1900's; launched fragrances; also referred to as Madame (Mme) Girard et Cie Ltd.

The perfumes of Mme. A. Girard et Cie:

1870 White Heliotrope
1870 Essence Bouquet
1890 Opoponax
1890 Violette de Parme
1898 Violet
1898 Oeillet
1900 Carnation
1900 Columbian Poppy
1900 Nirvana
1900 Wallflower
1900 Trefle
1908 Heliotrope
1908 Lilac
1908 Stephanotis
1908 White Rose
1910 Extrait Nirvana
1910 Grekis
1910 Jockey Club
1910 Lavender Water
1910 Sweet Pea
1914 Parfum Surfin
1914 Mandragore
1920 Kalys
1920 Lily of the Valley
1920 Lils
1920 Muguet
1920 Oeillet
1920 Rose
1920 Violet
1920 Pour Être Belle
2008 Lysval
2008 Bouquet d'Orient
2008 Bali Sunrise
2008 New York Nights
2008 Provence Spring
Extrait Concentre
June Day
May Day
Violettes Blanches

Violette de Parme and Opoponax were presented in a set of Richardson Crystal square cut bottles.

Parfum Surfin was presented in a bottle designed by Henri Hamm.

In 2008, Boots Pharmacy resurrected the old house of A. Girard.

They released several perfumes:

Bouquet d'Orient and Lysval are reinterpretations of original formulas.

Bouquet d'Orient evokes "the hustle and bustle of pre-war Shanghai, with a rich and spicy amber oriental fragrance. Bouquet D'Orient opens with top notes of Neroli, Bergamot and Lemon, which give way to a floral heart of Bulgarian Rose, Ylang Ylang, Mimosa, Orris, Cassie, and French Violet Leaves. All this rests on a warm resinous melange of Madagascan Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Benzoin and Myrhh, with just a hint of Patchouli.

Lysval is a deliciously layered fragrance updating a classic vintage recipe, Lysval incorporates some of the richest floral essences in the world to instantly evoke the richness and tranquillity of the perfect English garden. Perfume description: A cascade of flowers, including Ylang Ylang, Indian Jasmine, Rose Petals and Orange Blossom are supported by a beautifully powdery French Orris, Benzoin Siam and warm rich Sandalwood. A particularly French base combining Jacinthe Fleurs and Muguet contributes to a fresh Spring floralcy of Hyacinths, Lily-Of-The-Valley and Freesias.

Bali Sunrise, New York Nights and Provence Spring are new additions and follow a travel theme that already existed in the early days of the house.

Vallee des Rois by Mira Takla c1988

In 1988, the fragrance "Vallee des Rois" by Mira Takla was launched at a time when the fragrance industry was experiencing a significant shift towards luxury and opulence. The 1980s were characterized by extravagant tastes and a fascination with historical and exotic themes, influenced by the era's broader cultural trends. During this period, there was a growing interest in reviving and romanticizing the past, particularly ancient civilizations. This fascination was reflected in various facets of fashion and design, including perfumery. The choice of a name like "Vallee des Rois" fit perfectly within this context, offering an air of exclusivity and historical grandeur that appealed to a market seeking sophistication and elegance.

The name "Vallee des Rois," which translates to "Valley of the Kings" in English, draws directly from the historical and mystical allure of ancient Egypt. The Valley of the Kings is renowned for its royal tombs and the treasures of the pharaohs, making it a symbol of majestic heritage and timeless beauty. By naming her fragrance "Vallee des Rois," Mira Takla tapped into the grandeur of ancient Egyptian royalty, suggesting a perfume that embodies the splendor and sacredness associated with that era. The choice of this name underscores the fragrance’s aim to evoke a sense of regal elegance and timeless allure.

"Vallee des Rois" would be an appropriate name for the perfume because it connotes luxury, mystery, and a connection to ancient royalty. The name suggests a fragrance that is not only sophisticated but also imbued with a sense of history and reverence. For the target audience, which likely included women who appreciated high-end, culturally rich products, the name would resonate deeply. These women would be drawn to the idea of a fragrance that symbolizes both ancient grandeur and personal elegance, and they would respond to it as an accessory that enhances their own sense of sophistication and allure.

Bakir by Germaine Monteil c1975

Bakir by Germaine Monteil; launched in 1975. Bakir is the Turkish word for copper, and the packaging used for Monteil's Bakir, copper on deep blue, is unusual and attractive.

Briggs White Gold Filled Compacts c1927 Advertisement

Striking full color advertisements for Briggs compacts and vanity cases from a 1927 Huntley & Co. catalog. All of these compacts will have the marking of "DFB Co." I love the elegant chain handles on these, they are perfect for dancing the tango and was the reason for why they are named tango compacts or dance compacts. Each one has beautiful engine turned or enameled details which make them even more attractive. Most are made up of white gold or green gold fill, most have sterling silver tops.

original images: ebay seller gdawg

Friday, March 20, 2015

Fleur de Fleurs by Nina Ricci c1980

Fleur de Fleurs by Nina Ricci: launched in 1980, created by Betty Busse. The fragrance was marketed as "Eau de Fleurs" in Europe. In 1981, Jean-Louis Rici explained "Americans don't like the French word eau (water in English). They like everything strong, highly concentrated, sickening sweet. So we changed the name. The French tend to like the opposite."