The Shalimar Exceptional Limited Edition Collector’s Flacon for Christmas 2014, christened Shalimar Indian Nights by Maison Gripoix, represents the pinnacle of perfume artistry and decorative mastery. At its heart lies Shalimar extrait, the purest and most voluptuous expression of Guerlain’s iconic oriental fragrance, contained within a monumental 1.5-litre cobalt blue crystal flacon masterfully crafted by Waltersperger. The deep midnight blue of the crystal, with its multiple meticulously faceted surfaces, captures and refracts light, producing a hypnotic interplay of shadow and shimmer that mirrors the allure and mystery of the fragrance itself.
Encircling the neck of this monumental bottle is a Gripoix necklace of extraordinary refinement: two rows of precious sapphire-colored glass beads, interwoven with glimmering iridescent pearls, set against rich 24-karat gold mounts. This exquisite adornment recalls the ceremonial garlands of flowers bestowed upon ancient Egyptian pharaohs and nobility, a symbol of both reverence and opulence. The jewel-like neck elevates the flacon from a vessel to a wearable objet d’art, a testimony to Maison Gripoix’s unmatched expertise in glass paste, enameling, and gilding—a craft the Parisian house has refined since 1828.
Limited to only 40 numbered copies worldwide and retailing at €9,500, this edition is as rare as it is breathtaking. The perfume within is the ultimate embodiment of oriental sophistication: a luminous burst of bergamot opens the senses with a sparkling freshness, quickly softened by an enveloping bouquet of iris, jasmine, and rose, each flower rendered in the densest, most sensual concentration. Beneath this floral heart, vanilla, opopanax, and tonka bean provide a rich, resonant base, exuding warmth and depth. In this colossal 1.5-litre format, Shalimar reaches the apex of its legendary sensuality—a provocative secret encased in a jewel of crystal and gold.
This edition is more than a perfume; it is a celebration of artistry, craftsmanship, and history. Waltersperger’s monumental glass, combined with Gripoix’s couture jewelry expertise, forms a dialogue between tradition and luxury, a perfect union of perfumer and artisan. The Shalimar Indian Nights flacon embodies a rare fusion of fragrance and finery, a tangible testament to Guerlain’s enduring devotion to both olfactory and visual beauty.
From Guerlain:
"For the first time ever, Guerlain is offering a special edition of the giant Shalimar glass bottle in a deep midnight blue. Thanks the tour de force of glass maker Waltersperger, the format and colour take the beauty of this exceptional bottle, whose multiple facets attain their full glory, to a new level. Guerlain commissioned Gripoix to put the sublime finishing touches on this amazing work of art. A perfect pairing between the perfumer, a devotee of craftsmanship since 1828, and the Paris couture jewellery maker. Jewels in hundreds deep blue glass and iridescent pearls mounted on fine 24 carats gold adorn he neck of the bottle. A finery fit for a prince and a symbol of the mystery and sensuality of the Shalimar legend. Only 40 numbered pieces are available worldwide.
In Extract form, the first ever oriental reaches the height of voluptuousness. Like a provocative secret, the dark bottle hides the warm amber tones of this decadent concentration. With a fresh opening burst of bergamot, followed by an enveloping armful of iris, jasmine and rose, over a vanilla, opopanax and tonka bean base. 1.5 litres of extreme sensuality…
Founded in 1869, Gripoix has earned its reputation as the ultimate Parisian couture jewellery house and preserved the art of glass paste.These jewellery creations, steeped in precious emotions, are an encounter between the traditional art and know-how of adornment-makers, stone-setters, gilders and enamellers. True magicians whose skills bring these adornments to life."
