In the enchanting realm of fragrance, a unique scent emerges from the depths of the earth, capturing the essence of nature's most primal elements. Coven, a release by Icelandic graphic artist Andrea Maack, is a remarkable olfactory journey that intertwines childhood memories of playing in the mud with the sophisticated art of perfumery.
From early childhood, many hold a fondness for playing with the earth and soil, relishing in the joy of digging through soil and cherishing the distinctive scent that lingers on muddy hands. This raw, earthy aroma, reminiscent of one's first olfactory experiences, remains a comfort even as one matures. Surprisingly, few perfumers have endeavored to encapsulate this natural essence in a fragrance, yet Coven triumphantly rises to the challenge.
Andrea Maack, a Reykjavik native, has progressively evolved her craft, culminating in this fragrance, her seventh fragrance. This scent marks a significant departure from her initial offerings, which were deemed somewhat conventional. Her collaboration with Renaud Coutaudier has been instrumental in crafting Coven's unique identity, particularly notable in its departure from earlier releases like Coal. While Maack and Coutaudier have kept the identity of the perfumer a closely guarded secret, their direction is palpable in the final product – a true embodiment of soil's essence.
The fragrance captivates from the outset, evoking the sensation of freshly turned earth. Its composition skillfully blends green notes, with galbanum taking center stage, to recreate the authentic experience of soil being upturned by a shovel. A subtle mix of spices enhances this realism, carefully balanced to support, not overpower, the green notes. The addition of Tolu balm lays a balsamic foundation, anchoring the fragrance's earthy character. As it settles on the skin, Coven lingers like a fond memory of playful times in the dirt, yet it avoids heaviness, maintaining a certain light-heartedness. The final traces of patchouli and woodsy notes serve as a reminder of these earthy adventures.
Boasting a longevity of 8-10 hours and modest sillage, the perfume is not just a scent; it's an experience. While the idea of smelling like dirt may not initially appeal, Coven transcends this notion, engaging the wearer in a unique olfactory journey. It resonates with fans of incense fragrances and stands out for its unparalleled uniqueness. The fragrance captures the innocence of childhood in a muddy embrace that is irresistible and enduring.
Beyond its olfactory appeal, the scent makes a bold feminist statement, reminiscent of the tragic history of wise women, often labeled as witches, who were persecuted for their individuality and knowledge. This perfume honors their memory, blending assertiveness with sensuality, a tribute to the complex femininity these women embodied.
Coven is more than a fragrance; it's a powerful incantation. Its composition features iridescent vines releasing green sap, earthy patchouli or 'soil tincture,' and shavings of tree bark, all combining to create a mesmerizing effect. Pepper and dewy air notes add to their complexity, evoking a sense of being enveloped by nature's embrace. The fragrance's woody greenness may recall classic scents from the 1980s, yet it stands distinct in its presentation of the natural world.
While the creator behind Coven remains a mystery, the fragrance itself speaks volumes. It's a testament to the power of scent in connecting us to our primal roots, our memories, and the natural world around us. Coven is not just a perfume; it's a journey through time and sensation, a celebration of nature's raw beauty, and a homage to the strength and sensuality of women throughout history. It's a scent to be worn with pride, a hex of enchantment that lingers long after the bottle is closed.
$170.00 USD
Coven by Andrea Maack is an Aromatic fragrance for women and men. Coven depicts the dark Nordic woodlands and finds a path through the supernatural world of secrets and enchantment where shapes and shades form in unreality and illusion. It… read moreCoven
