I thought they were just pearls until I see that one is pulled out to the side. Regardless what these are, I love the detail and clarity of the picture. Great angle too!

What in the world is that... I refuse to believe that these are parfum bottles. If they are, then why are they upside-down?!?!?! Nonetheless, it's one of the most intriguing images I've seen, the texture alone here speak 'antique' and want to tell a story. And such a contrast with the modern thick glass shelf!

How very interesting! Like za4em9 I wonder why they would be stored upside down if they did contain perfume; but maybe the stopper contained something that would permit the perfume to be applied. This photograph illustrates how little we really know about the everyday things used 100 and 200 years ago. Photographically, the items on the shelf below might be considered distracting, but they do define the scene (glass shelves). Nice mix of straight and round lines...so I am left with my only nitpick...might have been good to include the corner of the box lid.

Found on the web:
`Parfum XXIII,` a perfume presentation for Delettrez, known as `String of Pearls,` circa 1923, in pearl finished glass (rare rose pink color), with cork closures, in jewel type presentation box.

Fascinating find. Today, women buy one or two frangrances, one bottle, that's it. But back then they travelled with a personally collected selection: often sought for and purchased directly from the creator. Signature scents for all the variety of moods and moments that a woman might have. It was much more of a personal statement then, involving individuality. We have become bland in comparison. A much enjoyed image. Thanks.