Preface -- Introduction -- Incense, wood, and resin. The torchwoods : frankincense, myrrh, and copal ; Fragrant woods : agarwood and sandalwood -- Spices. Spices of the Western Ghats ; The Spice Islands ; Saffron, vanilla, and chocolate -- Scented gardens and aromatic herbs. Gardens ; Fragrant flowers and aromatic herbs ; Roses -- Perfumery from mandarin to musk. Humble beginnings : mint and turpentine ; Perfume notes -- Fragrance and fashion. Impossible flowers and buildings a perfume ; Scented worlds : industry and fashion -- Glossary.
Summary:
In this wide-ranging and accessible new book, biologist-turned-perfumer Elise Vernon Pearlstine turns our human-centered perception of fragrance on its head and investigates plants' evolutionary reasons for creating aromatic molecules. Delving into themes of spirituality, wealth, power, addiction, royalty, fantasy, and more, Pearlstine uncovers the natural history of aromatic substances and their intersection with human culture and civilization.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.