The Museum of Scent: Exploring the Curious and Wondrous World of Fragrance

The Museum of Scent is a beautiful book by Mandy Aftel that explores the natural and cultural history of scent, featuring treasures from her museums collection. It is filled with stories, information, and images that invite readers to immerse themselves in the world of scent. Aftel is a renowned natural perfumer who creates complex fragrances using only natural essences, and her museum, the Aftel Archive of Curious Scents, has attracted thousands of visitors.

Format: Hardback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 16 October 2023
Publisher: Abbeville Press Inc.,U.S.

Aftel, a renowned natural perfumer, has unveiled a captivating book that transports readers into the enchanting world of scent. Illustrated with precious treasures from her museums collection, this masterpiece invites readers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of fragrance.

In her latest creation, "The Museum of Scent," Aftel delves into the profound natural and cultural history of scent, offering a captivating narrative woven by an author deeply passionate about her subject. This literary masterpiece is a testament to Aftel's exceptional talent and unwavering dedication.

As one delves into the pages of this exquisite book, they are greeted with a visual feast that unfolds like a treasure trove of beauty. Each page is adorned with stunning illustrations, carefully selected to complement the narrative and evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity. The images, drawn from the Aftel Archive of Curious Scents, transport readers to a realm where scent becomes a portal to another dimension.

The book itself is a work of art, meticulously crafted with attention to detail and a reverence for the senses. The text is informative, engaging, and evocative, drawing the reader into a world where the power of scent transcends language and culture. Aftel's expertise and storytelling skills shine through, as she weaves a narrative that is both captivating and educational.

"The Museum of Scent" is not merely a collection of beautiful images and informative text; it is a journey of discovery. Aftel takes readers on a sensory exploration, revealing the secrets and mysteries of scent-making and its profound impact on human history, culture, and emotions. From the ancient rituals of fragrance to the modern innovations in perfumery, Aftel offers a comprehensive and insightful perspective.

What sets this book apart is Aftel's unique approach to fragrance creation. She eschews the synthetic molecules that dominate commercial perfumes, opting instead for the use of only natural essences. Each essence in her collection is a gateway to a world of sensory delight, a source of inspiration for her intricate and subtle fragrances. Aftel's fragrances are a testament to her artistry and dedication to the craft. They are complex, nuanced, and evocative, capturing the essence of nature and the human spirit.

With a clientele that spans from renowned singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen to Ivy Ross, head of hardware design at Google, Aftel has established herself as one of the preeminent natural perfumers in the world. Her creations have garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following, and her work has been featured in prestigious publications such as Vogue, The New York Times, and Smithsonian.

In the foreword to "The Museum of Scent," Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés Reyés, author of "Women Who Run with the Wolves" and the forthcoming "La Curandera, Walking in Two Worlds," praises Aftel as a true polymath. She describes the book as a rare legacy volume, created by a beautiful elder who possesses a profound knowledge of multiple modern and ancient ways of knowing. Reyés goes on to express her deep sense of gratitude and hope that the book will continue to bless readers time and again.

"The Museum of Scent" is a testament to the power of scent and the endless possibilities it holds. It is a book that appeals to the senses, igniting curiosity, inspiring creativity, and transporting readers to a world where the beauty of nature and the artistry of perfumery converge. Whether you are a fragrance enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this book is a must-read.

In conclusion, Mandy Aftel's "The Museum of Scent" is a masterpiece that celebrates the beauty of scent and its profound impact on human history, culture, and emotions. Illustrated with treasures from her museums collection, this book offers readers a sensory journey like no other. With her unique approach to fragrance creation and her deep knowledge of the natural world, Aftel has created a work of art that will continue to inspire and delight for generations to come.

Weight: 1382g
Dimension: 237 x 237 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780789214713