Persian Letters

Arty Fragrance by Elisabeth de Feydeau pays homage to the Orient and the extraordinary influence it exerted in 18th-century Europe. The architecture, grandeur and customs of these refined civilizations were an immense source of fascination, and their representatives were received as honoured guests in the Hall of Mirrors at the Château de Versailles.

 

With the founding of the French East India Company by Jean-Baptiste Colbert in 1664, brightly printed cotton fabrics known as Indiennes became the height of fashion, wrapped in patchouli leaves for protection from insects during the long voyage. Their exotic scent wafted through the air at Versailles, although perfumers had not yet begun to use it in their palette.

 

In 1721, Montesquieu published the highly popular Persian Letters, introducing the "Turquerie" movement of Turkish-inspired styles and methods to the Court and all of 19th-century baroque society.

 

The Persian Letters candle exudes the warm, sensual scent of patchouli, heightened by notes of amber and vanilla, to evoke the famous, traditional Oriental accord.

 

 

Top note : patchouli

Heart note : amber

Base note : vanilla

 

 

Available September 2, 2015

Secret of Chrysanthemum

In Asia, the chrysanthemum is a source of joy, a symbol of longevity and perfect beauty. Native to China, the "golden flower" became the emblem of the Japanese Imperial Family.

 

The chrysanthemum came into fashion in France during the 18th century. Marie-Antoinette had beds of the flowers planted at the Petit Trianon, and enjoyed watering them with her children.

 

This candle extols the chrysanthemum with a floral, spicy accord that evokes the Queen's beloved flowerbeds and the symbol of the sun celebrated in Japanese culture.

 

 

Top note : peony, lily of the valley

Heart notes : rose

Base notes : myrrh and sandalwood

 

 

Available October 7, 2015