J.F. Schwarzlose Berlin

One of Germany’s oldest and most historic perfume houses, originally founded in Berlin in 1856 by piano maker Joachim Friedrich Schwarzlose. What began as a pharmacy and colonial goods store eventually evolved into a prestigious perfume empire that became known across Europe and even reached royal courts and international markets. 

The brand became especially famous during Berlin’s golden 1920s, creating iconic fragrances that reflected the artistic, modern, and progressive spirit of the city. Schwarzlose was considered innovative for its time, pioneering celebrity perfume campaigns, artistic bottle designs, and unique scent concepts inspired by Berlin culture. Historic bottles from the house are even displayed in museums worldwide, including collections linked to China’s last emperor.

After surviving wars, economic crises, and political changes, the original company closed in 1976. In 2012, the house was revived as J.F. Schwarzlose Berlin by designer Lutz Herrmann and perfumer Véronique Nyberg, who modernized the brand while preserving its historical identity. Today, the fragrances are designed as contemporary interpretations of Berlin — artistic, bold, elegant, and unconventional.