Exploring the Fragrant Realms of Imagination: The Launch of Then There at Esxence 2024

In the bustling, vibrant corridors of Esxence 2024 in Milan, a new name whispered through the air, leaving a trail of anticipation and intrigue in its wake: Then There. This independent collection of fine fragrances has made its debut under the auspices of Angela Ciampagna, a perfumist whose name is synonymous with creativity and depth in the olfactory arts. Then There, rooted in the scenic landscapes of the Canary Islands, introduces a quartet of fragrances that are not just scents but narratives woven through time and space: Mozart in Muscat, Fellini in Nishapur, Raphael in Kathmandu, and Dickens in Varanasi.

Founded by the Iranian musician Rouzbeh Dadbin in Madrid, Then There is a testament to the fusion of literature, philosophy, fine arts, and sciences with the boundless realms of scent. It stands as a beacon of innovation and creativity, merging inspirations from diverse fields to craft aromas that are both fascinating and imaginative. This Spanish-based perfumery house seeks to compose scented itineraries that honor significant individuals who have left ineffaceable marks across various domains.

At the heart of Then There's conception is a daring experiment in metafictional perfumery, aided by artificial intelligence. This AI-driven approach helps to intricately design formulas that speculate on the experiences of historical figures if they were transported to different locations, thereby constructing bridges between the East and the West. The essence of this collection is the creation of olfactory experiences that blend eras and geographies, celebrating the iconic achievements of artists and scientists by pairing them with cities they never visited, enveloped in the scents of those lands.

The Fragrances of Then There

Each fragrance in the Then There collection is a duet of a person and a city, showcasing the contrasts and convergences between character and place. The aim is to begin with the fragrant atmosphere of the city and then weave in the aromatic features of the character, creating scents that are complex, rich, and refined without being overwhelming.

Dickens in Varanasi

A complex melody of grapefruit, elemi, and chamomile top notes lead into a heart of magnolia, jasmine, and patchouli, finally settling into a base rich with incense, vanilla, and tobacco. This fragrance captures the essence of Dickens's introspective depth amidst the spiritual vibrance of Varanasi.

Mozart in Muscat

The symphony starts with bright bergamot and basil, flows through a floral and patchouli heart, and concludes with a base that includes ciste and clove. It’s a representation of Mozart's genius in the exotic, aromatic landscape of Muscat.

Fellini in Nishapur

A dazzling opening of bergamot, orange, and coconut transitions into a spicy, floral heart, and a warm, rich base featuring vanilla, myrrh, and oud. This fragrance imagines Fellini's cinematic flair within the ancient city of Nishapur.

Raphael in Kathmandu

Starting with saffron and marine notes, moving through a floral heart, and ending in a base of vetiver and cedarwood, this scent envisions Raphael's Renaissance artistry set against the backdrop of Kathmandu's mystical allure.

Then There stands as a creative force, merging the worlds of scent and storytelling in a collection that offers a unique journey through time and place. It represents not just a new brand but a new frontier in perfumery, where imagination and olfaction converge to create experiences that are deeply evocative and profoundly personal.