Guerlain showcases artisanal perfume-making

During the LVMH Particular Days, Guerlain will open its historic boutique on the Champs-Elysées to the public, offering a glimpse into its artisanal processes. The event will also highlight the Réserve des Sublimes, a collection that preserves the brand's heritage in Paris 1st.

The Table Ladies' rare craftsmanship

A small group of six artisans known as the Table Ladies will demonstrate their unique skills during the event. These women are responsible for enhancing perfume bottles, transforming them into works of art through intricate and time-honored techniques.

The technique of "baudruchage"

One of the techniques they use is "baudruchage," a rare method involving cellophane and silk thread to ensure the perfume's seal is watertight and tamper-proof. This technique, among others, has been preserved despite modern advancements in manufacturing.

Training and skills of the Table Ladies

Each Table Lady undergoes extensive training, taking about a year to master all the steps involved in preparing Guerlain's perfumes. Many of them come from backgrounds in hairdressing or leatherworking, where similar skills are required.

Preservation of heritage and craftsmanship

The art of the Table Ladies is considered part of French heritage and is passed down through experience rather than formal education. The artisans take pride in their work, knowing that the perfumes they enhance may be sent worldwide.

Production scale and contrast

Despite the meticulous nature of their work, the Table Ladies produce about 65,000 perfume bottles annually. This is a small fraction of the 10.3 million bottles produced by the Guerlain factory each year, highlighting the contrast between mass production and artisanal craftsmanship.