Serge Lutens De Profundis

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 Wildeβs 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
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
β±οΈ Longevity
6-8+ hours
π’ Projection
Moderate, extending a few feet initially before settling closer to the skin.
π¨ Sillage
Moderate, creating a discernible yet intimate scent bubble.
When to Wear
πΈSpringBest
βοΈSummerOK
πFallBest
βοΈWinterOK
π dayπ nightπ autumn wearπ spring wearπ meditative momentsπ artistic eventsπ personal reflection
Community Verdict
π Compliment Factor
0.0/5
5/10 with description
Pros & Cons
- β Highly unique and artistic scent profile.
- β Exceptional craftsmanship by Christopher Sheldrake.
- β Versatile for multiple seasons and occasions.
- β Evokes introspection and a sense of calm.
- β Distinctive earthy, floral, and incense combination.
- β Good moderate to long longevity.
- β Not a crowd-pleaser; may be challenging for some.
- β Premium price point may be a barrier.
- β Moderate sillage and projection might not satisfy those seeking a powerhouse.
- β 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.”
π Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported for Serge Lutens De Profundis, ensuring consistency across productions.
Explore More
β€οΈ 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)
π§ͺ Layering Ideas
- With a clean, sheer musk: To soften its edges and add a delicate skin-like warmth, making it more approachable for daily wear.
- With a dry woody amber: To enhance its warmth and resinous depth, particularly for evening or colder weather.
- With a light, airy white floral: To introduce a brighter, more traditionally floral dimension without losing its unique character.
- With a simple vetiver: To amplify its earthy, green facets and add a touch of crispness and grounding.
- With a touch of clean patchouli: To deepen its earthy notes and add a touch of sophisticated greenery.
π 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.
More fragrances we love
Sponsored picksAlso worth your attention: watches
Sponsored picksYou may also like
Serge LutensDe ProfundisNiche FragranceUnisex PerfumeEarthy ScentViolet FragranceIncense PerfumeGreen NotesChristopher SheldrakeArtistic FragranceAutumn ScentSpring ScentPowderyFloralWoodyContemplativeLuxury Fragrance