- Richard Herpin Perfumer:
Company:Firmenich
Web:firmenich.com
Richard Herpin: A Fragrance Visionary Rooted in Art and Emotion
Born and raised in Cannes, France—an epicenter of the global perfume industry—Richard Herpin’s formative years were steeped in sensory richness. Surrounded by antiques in his father’s shop and home, he developed an innate appreciation for craftsmanship and a keen aesthetic sensibility. The aromatic profiles of precious woods from his father’s atelier would later become a wellspring of inspiration for his olfactory creations.
His journey into perfumery began through encounters with master perfumer Pierre Bourdon, a family acquaintance who became his mentor. During shared "smelling sessions," Herpin’s passion for the art deepened as Bourdon guided him in distilling fragrance essences and prioritizing emotional resonance over superfluous complexity. This education laid the foundation for a career that would span over 25 years, collaborating with iconic brands like Amouage, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Tom Ford.
Herpin’s creative philosophy revolves aroundemotion and spontaneity. He likens perfume creation to sketching a live scene: first capturing an emotional moment, then layering it with "colors" and details. He cherishes the idea that scent is subjective, evolving uniquely on each wearer. His fragrances are often described as harmonious blends of musical genres, each note mirroring the nuances of human feeling.
The genesis ofPrecious Liquidstemmed from a vision shared with his wife, model Geo. Together, they founded the brand to embody "olfactive excellence"—crafting pure, gentle, fresh scents that celebrate individuality. Sourcing precious oils worldwide, Precious Liquid aims to reflect the generosity of creation through fragrances that feel both intimate and transcendent.
Herpin’s portfolio boasts iconic compositions, includingTom Ford Oud Wood,Badgley Mischka,Amouage The Library Collection Opus VIII,Van Cleef & Arpels Birmane, andAvon Flower by Cynthia Rowley EDP. These works exemplify his mastery in weaving narratives through scent, resonating with diverse audiences and solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer in modern perfumery.
