Imperial Collection

Arts and culture flourished during the Heian period, considered the crowning era of classical Japan. It was during this time that the first great novels were written, and reciting verses of love poetry became a daily activity at the imperial court. Beauty was not admired alone but linked to human kindness.

More than a thousand years ago, the rituals of incense burning, the art of flower arranging, and tea ceremonies began to develop. Over time, the Japanese refined incense burning  Kōdō into a new level of mastery. Fragrance became a symbol of pride, as every aristocratic clan created its own unique scent to distinguish itself. Here, we revive this spirit of distinction, for nothing less could be worthy of reinvention.

The Ayutthaya Kingdom reached its peak influence in the 17th century, extending into the heart of Europe.

It became a hub of thriving trade, attracting buyers and merchants from across the Western continent. The kingdom was also admired for its literature and ethics. Yet, it was the magnificence of the capital itself that captivated visitors, designed to mirror the celestial city described in Buddhist scripture.

In royal processions, oud and sandalwood were revered as sacred scents, alongside the blossoming art of floral garlands.

Our fragrance 1656 recalls this splendor of past ages, offering a tribute to the glorious essence of Ayutthaya.

It is undoubtedly one of the greatest love stories, and its legacy remains as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Driven by his passion for his wife, Emperor Shah Jahan built a mausoleum where they rest side by side to this day.

We know it as the Taj Mahal, one of the most inspiring monuments ever created, bringing architectural brilliance to Asia. Once seen, it is forever etched in memory, best admired across the Yamuna River, surrounded by gardens of jasmine and roses , a vision that inspired our fragrance.

Like other remarkable rulers, Shah Jahan embraced diverse cultures and scents, with incense burning in his court at Agra, carrying the aromas of oud, sandalwood, exotic florals, and spices. His tale of passion and splendor is honored here in our creation.

The Ottoman Empire is remembered as a magnificent era, for reasons well understood by all who value beauty and original thought.

The Sultan who gave his name to this period had a true zest for life and learning. He encouraged the sciences, but this was only the beginning of his patronage.

During his long reign, innovation in the arts also flourished under his direct involvement.

Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent found time to be both poet and goldsmith. His legendary rule spread far and wide, along with his passion for perfumes  especially the aromas of oud, musk, amber, sandalwood, and rose.

Today, we proudly revive the romance that flourished in his time.

It points to the pinnacle of the Ming Dynasty, reviving the accumulated wisdom of all dynasties. Their love for learning and determination to preserve it were remarkable.

The Ming Era  was distinguished in every respect, with its cultivated intellect. From their passion emerged the Yongle Encyclopedia - a vast treasury of Chinese culture and literature, still considered one of humanity’s greatest achievements.

This civilization was so exceptional that it attracted tribute and curiosity from the four corners of the world, spreading its influence abundantly. Over centuries, masters of incense refined their unique arts.

Our new fragrance is inspired by them and the brilliance of their age.

The Abbasid Empire truly embodies the Golden Age. The city now known as Baghdad was the center of Arab-Islamic civilization.

Invention and science flourished, reaching horizons no one had imagined. Philosophy and literature were not only rediscovered but reinvented, echoing through One Thousand and One Nights where Caliph Harun al‑Rashid himself appears.

As the wisdom and teachings of the ancients resonated, the royal court opened its doors to guests, marked by generosity and openness. Visitors were showered with gifts as incense burned a symbol of noble hospitality.

Our newly crafted fragrance evokes these wonders, reflecting the many facets of refinement in that Golden Age.