Antilope by Weil c1928

Antilope by Weil: launched in 1928. The perfume was trademarked in 1931 and was relaunched after WWII ended in 1945. Created by Claude Fraysse.

c1947 ad

Capricci by Nina Ricci c1960

Capricci by Nina Ricci: launched in 1960. Created by Marcel Carles.

Breidenbach et Cie., Ltd

Breidenbach et Cie., Ltd was established by Aaron Page at Park Street, Grosvenor Square, London in 1793. Aaron Page was listed as a hairdresser, perfumer and distiller of eau de cologne.

Later the business was passed onto his son William, then onto his son-in-law Francis Henry Breidenbach on his marriage to his daughter Emily.

Francis Henry Breidenbach had been born in Cologne, did his training in Paris, subsequently was bestowed a Royal Warrant in 1841. He later moved to New Bond Street in 1852 and to then onto Burlington Arcade in 1900.

Sikkim by Lancome c1971

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

Snuff by Schiaparelli c1939

In 1939, the time period when Schiaparelli launched the perfume "Snuff," the world was on the brink of World War II. This era was characterized by a blend of elegance and practicality in men's fashion, reflecting a society poised between the opulence of the pre-war years and the impending austerity of wartime. Tweed suits were particularly fashionable, embodying a rugged yet refined aesthetic suitable for both formal occasions and outdoor pursuits.

Elsa Schiaparelli, known for her innovative approach to fashion, also ventured into the realm of men's fragrances with "Snuff." The name "Snuff" was inspired by the color brown, which Schiaparelli whimsically dubbed "Snuff," likening it to the fine, powdered tobacco used for sniffing. This choice of name cleverly tied the fragrance to a sense of tradition and sophistication, evoking an image of old-world charm and refinement.

"Scent" would appeal to men who appreciated classic, understated elegance. The fragrance itself was classified as dry, woodsy-mossy, perfectly complementing the rugged yet polished style associated with tweed suits and outdoor activities. It would likely resonate with gentlemen who valued subtlety and timeless sophistication in their grooming choices.

The word "Snuff" evokes images of finely ground tobacco, old leather-bound books, and perhaps even the rustic charm of a gentleman's study. It carries connotations of tradition, refinement, and a hint of nostalgia for a bygone era of masculine elegance.

Nectaroma by Tuvache c1960

Nectaroma by Tuvache: launched in 1960.

Silverplate Vanity Sets c1907

Images shown in an advertisement from a 1907 Fort Dearborn Watch & Clock Co. Catalog, Chicago, Il.

Platine by Dana c1938

Platine by Dana: launched in 1938 in France and in USA by 1939.

The name means "platinum" and the bottles had silvery platinum foil flakes floating inside to resemble platinum. The fragrance was also released in Spanish-speaking countries as Platino.

Besame by Myrurgia c1922

In 1922, the year Myrurgia launched "Besame," Spain was experiencing a cultural revival intertwined with its rich history of Moorish influence and a fascination with Orientalism. This period marked a reawakening of interest in Spain's Islamic heritage, which had deeply influenced its art, architecture, and even its language over centuries of Moorish rule. The Alhambra in Granada, for instance, stood as a testament to this fusion of Moorish and Spanish cultures, captivating imaginations with its intricate designs and lush gardens.

Orientalism, a trend romanticizing Eastern cultures and aesthetics, was at its peak during this time across Europe. Spain, with its proximity to North Africa and historical ties to the Moorish world, particularly embraced this fascination. Films of the era often depicted exotic settings and themes influenced by Orientalist fantasies, showcasing a blend of mystery, sensuality, and luxury.

Myrurgia's choice of the name "Besame" for its perfume reflects this cultural milieu. In Spanish, "Besame" translates to "kiss me," evoking notions of romance, passion, and allure. Such a name would resonate deeply with women of the time period, inviting them to indulge in fantasies of seduction and elegance.

For women in the 1920s, a perfume named "Besame" would symbolize sophistication and sensuality. It would be seen as more than just a fragrance; it would embody an essence of allure and femininity, aligning with the liberated spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

Grigri by Weil c1943

Grigri by Weil: launched in 1943. The name pronounced "Gree Gree", is African in origin and means "magic charm" or "talisman." I believe that this perfume, with its exotic name and advertisements, was some sort of patriotic allusion to the French colonies in West Africa. Jean Patou, another French perfume manufacturer visited this theme with his perfume, Colony.