Chinese Incense Tradition

As in many ancient cultures, in the very early stages of their development incense played a key role in the lives of the people. Long before modern cultures developed the specific identities we are familiar with, indigenous peoples living in simple natural surroundings discovered the virtues of all the plants amongst which they dwelt. Their very life was dependent on them and the natural reverence they developed for the botanical world was direct and real. Through minute observations of their qualities they came to realize which plants were good for medicine, paints, making clothes, tools, foods, etc. Those which possessed aromatic qualities were highly esteemed because they gave to life a special aesthetic radiance that naturally inspired a person to reflect on the deep mystery of existence. More...

In creating the Jade Censer Perfume I drew upon a number of aromatic materials that were an integral part of the grand incense tradition of China. The purpose of the composition was to create a feeling of the rich aromatic essences wafting from the elegant incense burners of ancient Chinese temples. The fragrance of smoldering resins, precious woods, aromatic spices and herbs has a distinct charm that naturally diverts ones attention into a quiet and serene place where the division between the seen and unseen worlds begins to disintegrate. For hundreds of years the incense compounders of China drew upon a refined palette of natural botanicals including aloeswood, sandalwood, cloves, cinnamon, patchouli, star anise and frankincense to create blends that would enhance the contemplative experience and for this reason they have been included in the Jade Censer Perfume.  More...

July Updates 

In early July I will begin a new round of ordering absolutes and essential oils. By the end of the month we should have a few new delights like Madagascar Vanilla Absolute, New Caledonia Sandalwood Absolute, Araucaria EO, Majmua Attar (a wonderful traditional attar that contains ruh khus/wild vetiver, mitti attar/baked earth, and kadam attar). We will also replenishing our stocks of Amberi Attar, Shamama Attar, Pink Lotus Absolute, Coconut Absolute, Henna Leaf Absolute and several others that we are currently out of. Meanwhile in the month of July these specials will be offered on the following essential oils as long as stocks last. More...