10 Apr 2023
Murasaki, Kagerou and Sarashina Aromatique Incense offer customers an alternative way to imbue their treasured interiors with complex, unconventional Aesop aromas. The aromatic effect of each fills a space gently, then lingers awhile after lighting. Long associated with spiritual, religious and cleansing ceremonies, the act of burning incense instils an air of studious serenity, steadily permeating the atmosphere through the unfurling of its delicate ribbons of aroma.
Developed with long-term fragrance partner Barnabé Fillion and manufactured by a revered Japanese incense atelier, this triptych has been crafted with assiduous attention to detail, using traditional blending techniques paired with modern processing equipment.
With key ingredients of Hinoki, Cinnamon and Clove, Murasaki Aromatique Incense (AUD $45) strikes a medley of spices and fresh, woody resins. After an initial release of sweetness and warmth, smoky woods are left to linger. Murasaki Aromatique Incense is likely to appeal to existing users of Hwyl Eau de Parfum, as well as those who favour rich, warm fragrances.
The earthy Vetiver used in Kagerou Aromatique Incense (AUD $45) is given nuance by the green notes of Igusa, alongside dry notes of Sandalwood. Once lit, early intimations of wood and smoke give way to more sustained herbaceous and earthy accords. With Vetiver in various forms being prominent in Aesop Déodorant and several Aesop Eaux de Parfum, as well as Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash and Balm, Kagerou Aromatique Incense should appeal to those who enjoy these formulations.
Pairing Sandalwood with the comforting warmth of Clove and gentle sweetness of Cinnamon, Sarashina Aromatique Incense (AUD $45) starts with a dry, woody aroma, which leads to earthy, spicy notes as the stick burns out. It will appeal to those who gravitate towards Aesop formulations such as Moroccan Neroli Shaving Serum and Post-Shave Lotion, or Perfect Facial Hydrating Cream, themselves suffused in sumptuous Sandalwood.
Each Aromatique Incense may also be used with Aesop’s Bronze Incense Holder (AUD $175), sold separately. Simply light the tip of the incense stick and gently fan out the flame. Place in the holder in a well-ventilated area and allow to smoulder.
The serene curves of Aesop’s Bronze Incense Holder bring subtle, understated gravitas to any place setting, hearth or bookshelf, and enable the enjoyment of incense as a moment of calm and quietude. Crafted in Germany and cast from solid bronze, which will take on a natural patina over time, it joins the Brass Oil Burner as the second design object in Aesop’s Home range.
The Bronze Incense Holder holds a single stick of standard-size incense over a concave dish that catches the fluttering, falling ash as the aroma unfurls—a platform afforded unique character by its asymmetrical composition. The substantial, palpable weight of its base contrasts with the delicate skyward stance of its burden. This holder complements the Brass Oil Burner in both shape and shimmer, as it too will naturally burnish over time, oxidising with age to give each individual piece its own singular appearance. Alternatively, the original finish can be restored regularly through gentle cleaning and polishing.
Murasaki, Kagerou and Sarashina Aromatique Incense are offered individually and packaged in a robust, protective carton—made from recycled materials—each containing 33 sticks. These are composed of 100% incense, with a square profile and no bamboo core—visually setting them apart from traditional incense. Each has a burn time of approximately 30 minutes. Also enclosed in the carton is a small disc of Kanuma pumice, which serves as a simple mount for a single incense stick. And the Bronze Incense Holder is packaged in a protective, recyclable carton.
