Antique Sealed Peau d’Espagne Perfume by Vinolia, c.1897

A rare, sealed(!) bottle of Peau d’Espagne Fragrance by Vinolia, housed in its original presentation box.
Launched in 1897 by Vinolia (Blondeau), Peau d’Espagne captures the romantic allure of its name, which translates from French to “Spanish Leather”.

When Peau d’Espagne entered the market, it aligned with an enduring trend of leather-inspired fragrances that had captivated perfumery throughout the 19th century. The perfume’s launch coincided with a burgeoning fascination for opulent, long-lasting fragrances, as advancements in synthetics like vanillin and coumarin allowed perfumers to create more complex and enduring compositions. Spanish Leather was particularly beloved for its versatility, used not only as a personal fragrance but also to scent accessories and home goods, marking it as both a practical and indulgent luxury.

As a leathery floral fragrance, Peau d’Espagne melds supple, smoky leather accords with an intricate bouquet of florals and spices. The leathery quality reflects the natural tannins and oils that perfumed gloves and stationery, creating an aroma that is simultaneously tactile and aromatic.
Spicy notes— including cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg—add warmth and intrigue, while resinous elements of labdanum and benzoin contribute depth and longevity.
A floral heart provides balance, with roses, orange blossoms, and carnations softening the bold leather and spices with a romantic flourish.
Strong animalic undertones, derived from tinctures of civet, castoreum, ambergris and musk, imbue the fragrance with sensuality, while emerging synthetics like coumarin, linalyl acetate and ambreine likely rounded out the composition with subtle sweetness and richness.

The square-shaped bottle is made of clear glass and topped with a lapidary-style cut glass stopper. The front bears a gold-embossed paper label, showing signs of age with overall staining and wear. Of historical note, the reverse of the box features a Spanish revenue stamp used between 1904 and 1913, helping to date this piece.

Liquid volume isn't specified.

Dimensions:
Height - 10.5 (including the stopper)
Width - 4 cm

Great antique condition - while some evaporation of the liquid is visible, there is no leakage, and the bottle itself remains free from visible defects. The original box is present, though the lid is taped on three sides and in fragile condition (please refer to the photos).