A visit to the ever so stylish Peony Haute Parfumerie, Melbourne

On a little getaway to Melbourne last year, I managed to get to one of my favourite stores, Peony Haute Parfumerie owned by the one and only gorgeous Jill Timms.  I had only been to Peony once before and both times I was so amazed by this delightful little find on Auburn Road, Hawthorn. 



 

I instantly knew this is a special store from the front window display.  I am sorry about the reflection but I hope you can spot the French charcuterie table and the antique French chemists bottles through the glass window?  All so wonderfully displayed, you feel as if you are in Paris about to enter a very chic store indeed! 



Inside, the products are expertly curated, with carefully sourced French perfumes and perfumed candles.  Jill has used a 19th century glass dome to show some Arquiste products, above.  You may be able to see two 19th century bulls eye lenses, also under the dome.  Jill found both of these with us at The Drill Hall Emporium!

 Ever since my first trip to Paris, where I accidentally happened upon the Astier de Villatte boutique store, on Rue Saint Honoré near the Louvre, I have held a secret love affair with their white glazed ceramics.  Peony stocks their perfumed candles along with some of these gorgeous ceramics. 

I really, really could not resist the Delphes candle.  Not that I need to justify a little gift for myself, but I figure I can burn the candle and then keep the lidded jar for some other purpose.  And along with the candle wick trimmer, also from Peony, I am very happy indeed!

 The candle is now in my hall way alongside my collection of sea urchins, coral and crystals. 

I am sorry for the length of time between posts, life just gets away.  I still enjoy making contact with my readers and will continue to do so through my blog.  Perhaps I will go for quality, not quantity!

Until next time,

in store...French antiques stacked up!

We are nearing the completion of setting up the shop after the arrival of our antiques shipment. And boy, has it been a big job! Probably the most challenging part of the set up is literally fitting most of the new pieces in. As you can see above we are having to stack up! We are still closed and will reopen on Sunday the 17th July at 10am. I am very excited with the thought of opening the doors for all to see. But if you live far away, don't worry I will be sure to post pictures of my favourite pieces and nooks in the store. Have a great weekend! I certainly hope too...

new in store...decoy pigeon and swan, feather cloche hats, chandelier and a dress mannequin

Both the swan and pigeon were originally used as decoys but now they make wonderfully unique display pieces. The swan gives off peaceful vibes.

These feather hats date from the mid 19th century. I have put one of them on an old wooden spool, an idea from a customer during the week who bought a spool to do just that.

This mannequin is an amazing shape, the waist is so small! The shapes dates it to the Victorian period when corsets were used to create such a small waist. It measures a mere 20 inches! It has been later decorated with decoupage.

We actually have two of these chandeliers. The lustres are sharply cut. The Regency gilt convex mirror in the background has also just come into the store. These are very hard to find.