- Ian Fitzgerald Perfumer:
Ian Fitzgerald is a remarkable figure in the world of perfumery, renowned for his artistry and dedication to the craft. He, alongside Alexander Chesebro, founded Fitzgerald & Guislain, a label that has been making waves in the realm of natural perfumes.
Ian's journey in perfumery began with a profound passion for scents and a deep - seated curiosity about the art of combining different aromas. His work is characterized by a unique blend of classic and contemporary elements, often drawing inspiration from history, nature, and literature. For instance, some of their fragrances are inspired by 19th - century perfumery techniques, which they then infuse with a modern natural approach.
Fitzgerald & Guislain's initial collection, which included eaux de toilettes like Gere Fou, Golden Rose, Nuit à l’Opéra, and Eu Caly P Cense, immediately caught the attention of perfume enthusiasts. Gere Fou, for example, pays homage to the classic fougère style, with its opening burst of soapy lavender and citrus, supported by the refreshing tarragon absolute. As it develops, notes of geranium and lavender absolute create a soothing floral heart, and in the dry - down, sandalwood and tonka bean add warmth to the deep forest notes of oakmoss and aged patchouli.
Ian and his partner Alexander have also expanded their collection with more recent additions such as Forêt de Fontainebleau, Prunier à Minuit, Extrait Osmanthus, and Pêche Poivrée. Forêt de Fontainebleau masterfully evokes the 19th - century charm of the forest outside Paris, with its abundant clove and oakmoss notes, appealing to those with a penchant for vintage - style scents. Prunier à Minuit, inspired by a Tang Dynasty poem, weaves together tobacco, peach, and floral notes like jasmine sambac and tuberose, creating a complex and intoxicating olfactory experience.
Extrait Osmanthus is a prime example of Ian's ability to blend traditional and modern concepts. Classified as an animalic soliflore, it is based on an authentic 1858 recipe featuring triple - extract rose and ambergris. The combination of Chinese osmanthus's fruity and leathery undertones with a delicious apricot accord results in a harmonious and timeless perfume. Pêche Poivrée, part of their Forbidden Fruits of 2017 series, is a unique peach - themed fragrance. It successfully balances the savory and juicy aspects of a peach, combined with vetiver, creating a scent that is both sylvan and homely.
Ian Fitzgerald's work not only showcases his technical prowess in handling a wide range of natural ingredients but also his creativity in crafting stories and emotions through scent. His contributions to the world of natural perfumery have not only introduced new and exciting scents but have also inspired a new generation of perfumers and fragrance lovers to explore the beauty and complexity of natural - based fragrances.
