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Odd title? How does this relate to Synthetic Free Perfumery, you might be asking yourself?
On the left: Ancient perfumes of the Hebrews (Cinnamon, Balm of Judea being collected from cut bark, (extinct) Nard, and Valerian. On the right: An Egyptian with his incense burner
Photo Credit: http://www.lotuspress.com/lotusbrands/tiferetonline/key.html
I think one of the most fabulous things about the time of history that I live in, is the fact that I have access to botanical materials from all over the world! This amazes me, especially when I think about in the past, when perfumers, who were mainstream, keep in mind, had only access to the things that grew locally, and were seasonal.
Sketch based on Egyptian tomb painting from 3rd millennium BCE about perfume production
Photo Credit: http://www.wysinfo.com/Perfume/Perfume_history.htm
I don’t have to take the time to make any oils, concretes, or absolutes, unless I want to. I, of course, am working on learning how to do this as well, because it intrigues me. I attempted tincturing the old varietal lilacs in the neighborhood this year, and put them in the fridge until next year. I think I will give them at least two seasons before I use any of it, just because it’s a tricky one to do.
Greek Perfume Vessals
Photo Credit: http://www.greeceathensaegeaninfo.com/h-ancient-greek-ceramics.htm
I felt very connected to perfumers of old, while I collected blooms, and removed the leaf material and then submerged them so they would release their fragrance.
Enfleurage
Extracting
Oldest Perfumes Found on "Aphrodite's Island"
Photo Credit: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/bigphotos/4419999.html
Have a glorious day!
