The Flacon Elixir (c.1909–1939) was a utilitarian yet carefully executed design, created exclusively to house Guerlain’s dental preparations. Most notably, it contained Élixir de Guerlain, an antiseptic dentifrice that occupied an important place in the house’s catalog as part of its dedication not only to beauty but also to hygiene and personal care. This dual focus reflects Guerlain’s broader vision during the early 20th century, when the company offered both luxury perfumes and practical apothecary items.
The bottle itself was distinguished by a sealing method unique to this product. Around the neck, a strip of paper in blue, black, and white—printed with the name Guerlain—was carefully wrapped, serving as both a hygienic safeguard and a branded detail. This seal was secured with a narrow black ribbon threaded through the space in the stopper, ensuring that the contents remained untouched until use. The presentation thus communicated both reliability and elegance, underscoring Guerlain’s ability to elevate even the most functional articles.
Manufactured by Pochet et du Courval, the bottle was produced in four moulds over its lifespan. Each bore an embossed marking on the base reading Guerlain Made in France, a practical identifier that also affirmed its authenticity. While less decorative than Guerlain’s perfume bottles, the Flacon Elixir was nevertheless a thoughtfully conceived vessel, one that reflected the house’s standards of quality and refinement.
Produced until 1939, the Flacon Elixir is now a rare example of Guerlain’s early ventures into hygienic products, representing a fascinating intersection between luxury branding and everyday health care. Today, surviving examples serve as important reminders of the breadth of Guerlain’s historical offerings and the artistry the house extended even to its most utilitarian designs.
Sizes:
- Mould # 14562 = 15cc/15ml/0.5 oz - 7cm/2.76" (1930-1939)
- Mould # 15053 = 83cc/83ml/2.81 oz - 11cm/4.33" (1930-1939)
- Mould # 12504 = 160cc/160ml/5.41 oz - 15.5cm/6.1" (1909-1939)
- Mould # 12640 = 500cc/500ml/16.9 oz - 19.5cm/7.68" (1910-1939)
Bottle:
