Persian Otto Perfume label

c. 1901
Overview

This square paper label has a white background and a gold frame around the edge. It has the words ESSENCE OF ROSES in a banner golden in colour under the image of roses bouquet. The main text explains the quality of perfume in words 'Equal in Odour to Persian Otto Extracted by JOHN GOSNELL and CO. LTD, perfumers by Appointment to Her Late Majesty the Queen, London and Paris'. The term Otto originates from the Arabic word itr (attar) meaning perfume or essence. Persian Otto (or Attar of Roses) is a highly valued rose oil, traditionally produced in Persia (modern Iran), known for its rich and intense fragrance. By stating Equal in Odour to the Persian Otto, the company is highlighting the quality of their rose essence, suggesting it matches the esteemed Persian rose oil in fragrance. Ornate script and floral illustration suggest late Victorian or Edwardian styling, likely placing this label in the late 19 or early 20th century. The inclusion of Ltd indicates the label was produced after the company became a limited entity in 1898. The phrase Her Late Majesty the Queen refers to Queen Victoria who passed away in January 1901. This suggests the label was produced shortly after her death, likely in 1901, as the company updated its branding to reflect her passing.

Details

Details

Registration number
cwa-org-94-2025.23
Material
Width
61 mm
Height or length
66 mm
Place made
United Kingdom
Year
Primary significance criteria
Historic significance
Comparative significance criteria
Well provenanced
Last modified
Wednesday, 9 July, 2025
Completeness
77
Permissions

To reproduce this image please contact Heritage Services at the City of Gosnells.
Heritage_Queries@gosnells.wa.gov.au

Attribution requirements

Courtesy of City of Gosnells Museum at Wilkinson Homestead

City of Gosnells Museum - Wilkinson Homestead

City of Gosnells Museum - Wilkinson Homestead

Organisation Details
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