Scents of the past

Few brands can say that they managed to survive the French revolution but 368 year old candlemakers, Cire Trudon, can.   When recently in New York, I visited their new store in Nolita, just ’round the corner from John Derian.   They have managed to create a space in the basement of their building that feels just like their place in Paris.

The panelled interior is painted in a dark turquoise blue, creating a contemplative space which enhances the flickering candles. The joinery was completed by an Amish craftsman.

What is so wonderful about these candle are the truly original fragarances.   Not for them the ubiquitous lavander and fig but complex combinations that create environments.  My favourite, Carmelite, is based on mossy, woody notes that allow you to image eighteen century nuns floating down stone corridors.

Instead of sniffing, the candles are displayed beneath round cloches that you inhale until you are surrounded by the scent.  The wax is a combination of copra, rice and soy.  It burns very cleanly, just make sure that you snip of the end of the wick before lighting again.

 

In Hong Kong, Cire Trudon is available in Lane Crawford.

Cire Trudon

54 Bond Street

New York City