Serge Lutens De Profundis

Serge Lutens De Profundis: A Deep Dive Review

Unveiling the enigmatic depths of Lutens' floral, green, and earthy masterpiece.

By James Whitmore, Fragrance News Reporter · · Updated

James covers releases, brand news, and industry shifts in fine fragrance. Former beauty desk editor; trained nose since 2014.

Serge Lutens' De Profundis, launched in 2011, stands as a testament to the house's commitment to profound and often melancholic artistry. Crafted by the esteemed Christopher Sheldrake, this unisex Eau de Parfum is an olfactory journey into introspection, drawing its name from Oscar Wilde’s letter written during his imprisonment. It is not merely a fragrance; it is an experience designed to evoke contemplation and a unique sense of beauty found in depth, inviting wearers into a world of quiet reflection. From its initial release, De Profundis garnered attention for its distinctive profile, weaving together elements that are both familiar and startlingly unique. It challenges perceptions with an intricate blend of green, floral, earthy, and smoky accords, creating a scent that is both ethereal and grounding. This composition showcases Lutens' signature style of blending the unexpected, resulting in a fragrance that is deeply personal and evocative, far removed from mainstream trends. This comprehensive review will delve into the intricate layers of De Profundis, examining its composition, performance characteristics, and the unique appeal that has solidified its place among connoisseurs. We aim to provide a detailed understanding of what makes this fragrance a compelling choice for those seeking more than just a scent, but a narrative in a bottle that resonates with the soul.
4.3 Overall
Longevity
0.0
Projection
0.0
Sillage
0.0
$150-$250
🌸Springβ˜€οΈSummerπŸ‚Fall❄️Winter

Accords

green herbal violet earthy woody powdery floral fresh spicy amber smoky

Notes Pyramid

Top
Green NotesViolet
Heart
ChrysanthemumPlum Tree
Base
Soil TinctureIncense

Performance Dashboard

⏱️ Longevity

6-8+ hours

πŸ“’ Projection

Moderate, extending a few feet initially before settling closer to the skin.

πŸ’¨ Sillage

Moderate, creating a discernible yet intimate scent bubble.

When to Wear

🌸SpringBest
β˜€οΈSummerOK
πŸ‚FallBest
❄️WinterOK
πŸ“Œ dayπŸ“Œ nightπŸ“Œ autumn wearπŸ“Œ spring wearπŸ“Œ meditative momentsπŸ“Œ artistic eventsπŸ“Œ personal reflection

Community Verdict

⭐ Overall
4.3
⏱️ Longevity
4.0
πŸ’¨ Sillage
3.8
πŸ’° Value
3.5
πŸ’Œ Compliment Factor 0.0/5

5/10 with description

Pros & Cons

  • βœ… Highly unique and artistic scent profile.
  • βœ… Exceptional craftsmanship by Christopher Sheldrake.
  • βœ… Versatile for multiple seasons and occasions.
  • βœ… Evokes introspection and a sense of calm.
  • βœ… Distinctive earthy, floral, and incense combination.
  • βœ… Good moderate to long longevity.
  • ❌ Not a crowd-pleaser; may be challenging for some.
  • ❌ Premium price point may be a barrier.
  • ❌ Moderate sillage and projection might not satisfy those seeking a powerhouse.
  • ❌ Limited availability in some markets.

Price & Value

$150-$250

“Premium pricing for a niche offering, reflective of its quality, unique composition, and artistic value. While not inexpensive, it represents a worthy investment for discerning collectors.”

πŸ“œ Reformulation History

No significant batch variations reported for Serge Lutens De Profundis, ensuring consistency across productions.

Explore More

❀️ You May Also Enjoy

L'Artisan Parfumeur Timbuktu
Comme des GarΓ§ons Incense Series (e.g., Avignon)
Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady Frederic Malle
Histoires de Parfums 1889 Moulin Rouge
Zoologist Bat (Original Formulation)

πŸ§ͺ Layering Ideas

πŸ† Final Verdict

Serge Lutens De Profundis is a masterful and deeply evocative fragrance that transcends mere perfumery to become an olfactory work of art. Its unique blend of green, violet, chrysanthemum, earth, and incense offers a contemplative and profoundly beautiful experience for those willing to explore its depths. It is a scent that speaks to the soul, inviting introspection and quiet appreciation. While not designed for mass appeal, its sophisticated composition and moderate yet persistent performance make it an exceptional choice for the discerning individual. It stands as a testament to Christopher Sheldrake's unparalleled skill and Serge Lutens' unwavering artistic vision, offering a distinct and memorable scent journey that is both personal and profound, solidifying its place as a truly unique offering in the world of luxury fragrance.

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