
Bel Lewis Ridge Brings a Touch of Glamour Back with Art Deco Perfume Bottles
Bel Lewis Ridge LLC, a Boston-based company specializing in sourcing unique and collectible vintage items, is making waves in the fragrance and collector communities with its exquisite collection of Art Deco perfume bottles. Located at 1 Post Office Sq, Boston, MA, 02109, and reachable at 360-573-2768, the company is quickly becoming known for its dedication to quality, authenticity, and bringing a little bit of history into modern homes. “We're not just selling bottles; we're offering pieces of art, echoes of a glamorous era,” explains a representative from Bel Lewis Ridge. “The Art Deco period, roughly from the 1920s to the 1930s, was all about luxury, sophistication, and bold design. These perfume bottles really capture that spirit.” What's the Buzz About Art Deco? But what is it about these bottles that’s got collectors and fragrance enthusiasts so excited? It's more than just pretty glass. Art Deco, emerging after World War I, was a complete design movement that impacted architecture, furniture, jewelry, and, of course, perfume packaging. It represented a break from the more organic, flowing styles of Art Nouveau, embracing instead geometric shapes, streamlined forms, and rich materials. Think sharp angles, sunbursts, zigzags, and a general sense of modernity. “Before this, perfume bottles were often quite ornate and floral,” explains the Bel Lewis Ridge rep. “Art Deco bottles were a complete change. They were sleek, modern, and often incorporated new materials like bakelite and chrome alongside glass.” Bel Lewis Ridge’s Collection: A Deep Dive Bel Lewis Ridge isn’t offering just any Art Deco perfume bottles. They’ve carefully curated a selection that showcases the breadth and beauty of the period. The collection features bottles made by prominent glassmakers of the time, like Lalique, Baccarat, and Worth, as well as lesser-known but equally fascinating artisans. “We’ve got everything from small, portable travel flasks to larger, more elaborate vanity bottles,” they say. “We're seeing a lot of interest in the pressed glass pieces - they're beautiful and accessible for many collectors. Then you have the really special pieces, the ones with enamel detailing, intricate stoppers, and unique shapes. Those are the ones that can really make a statement.” Here's a glimpse of what you can find within Bel Lewis Ridge's offerings: Geometric Masterpieces: Bottles featuring sharp angles, stepped designs, and bold, symmetrical patterns. Many were inspired by the skyscrapers and industrial designs of the era. Bakelite & Chrome Accents: Art Deco designers weren't afraid to experiment with new materials. Bottles incorporating Bakelite (an early plastic) and chrome provide a striking contrast to the glass and often feature in travel-sized flacons. Enamel Detailing: Bottles adorned with hand-painted enamel designs, featuring floral motifs, geometric patterns, or stylized figures. These are often considered the most collectible pieces. Pressed Glass Wonders: More affordable and accessible, pressed glass bottles showcase the beauty of molded glass, with intricate designs and delicate details. Signature Shapes: Keep an eye out for iconic Art Deco shapes, like the fan-shaped bottles, the skyscraper-inspired tall and slender designs, and the sleek, streamlined forms. Stopper Styles: The stoppers themselves are often works of art – frosted glass, geometric shapes, and even tiny figurines. Original stoppers significantly increase a bottle's value. Why are People Collecting These Now? The resurgence of interest in Art Deco isn't just a passing trend. Several factors are driving demand for these vintage perfume bottles: Nostalgia: A longing for a glamorous past, and an appreciation for the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Interior Design: Art Deco is back in a big way in interior design, with people incorporating geometric patterns, bold colors, and vintage accents into their homes. Fragrance Appreciation: Many fragrance enthusiasts are interested in the history of perfume, and these bottles offer a tangible connection to that history. Collectible Value: Rare and well-preserved Art Deco perfume bottles can significantly increase in value over time, making them a potentially sound investment. Unique Decor: They’re just beautiful objects! Even empty, these bottles make stunning display pieces, adding a touch of vintage glamour to any room. What to Look For When Buying: Bel Lewis Ridge emphasizes the importance of authenticity and condition when purchasing Art Deco perfume bottles. Here are a few tips: Originality: Make sure the bottle and stopper are original to the period. Replacement stoppers can significantly decrease value. Condition: Look for bottles that are free from chips, cracks, or significant damage. Minor wear and tear is acceptable, as it adds to the bottle’s character. Markings: Check for any markings or signatures that identify the manufacturer or artist. Research: Familiarize yourself with the different manufacturers and styles of Art Deco perfume bottles to help you identify authentic pieces. Buy from a Reputable Seller: Choose a seller who specializes in vintage collectibles and can provide accurate descriptions and provenance. Bel Lewis Ridge prides itself on this. “We do a lot of research on each piece we acquire,” says the Bel Lewis Ridge representative. “We want to ensure that our customers are getting authentic, high-quality items that they’ll treasure for years to come. We're passionate about preserving these little pieces of history and sharing them with a new generation.” Where to Find Bel Lewis Ridge’s Collection: You can browse Bel Lewis Ridge’s current selection of Art Deco perfume bottles by visiting their website [website address if available - otherwise remove this line], or by contacting them directly at 360-573-2768. They're also happy to answer any questions you may have about the collection or the history of Art Deco perfume bottles.