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Vintage 1920s La Magique Black Satin Cleaner Bottle Bixby Bird Label 4.75"
A wonderfully graphic little survivor from the days when even shoe cleaner dressed for the occasion.
This La Magique Black Satin Cleaner bottle features a striking paper label with a colorful crested bird perched against a deep black background. Turquoise lettering and leafy borders, bright yellow framing, and orange-red accents give this small bottle tremendous shelf presence.
The label identifies the product as a cleaner for black satin and suede shoes, made by S. M. Bixby & Co., Inc., New York and Indianapolis, U.S.A.
The label is the star
The broad front panel carries the La Magique name above the bird illustration, with bold product lettering below. The label wraps around both narrow sides, preserving directions on one side and additional promotional text on the other.
Those side panels add an especially nice period detail: the directions explain how to moisten a felt dauber at the mouth of the bottle before applying the cleaner. The opposite panel promotes its ability to renew the appearance of black satin shoes and its usefulness on black suede.
It is a charming piece of everyday fashion history—an ordinary household product given an unusually decorative presentation.
Bottle details
Brand: La Magique
Product: Black Satin Cleaner, also marketed for suede shoes
Company named on label: S. M. Bixby & Co., Inc.
Locations printed on label: New York and Indianapolis, U.S.A.
Estimated date: Circa 1920s
Material: Clear glass with paper label
Form: Rectangular body with rounded shoulders and a short, ringed neck
Height: Approximately 4.75 inches
Closure: No stopper or applicator glass is bright, clean, and shiny, with no chips or cracks. The label retains strong, vibrant color and clearly readable printing. There are some faint creases, with small areas of surface wear and minor wear along the edges and crease lines, as shown in the close-up photographs.
