[productsample] With a ‘clean’ burn very much on the agenda, Jonathan Ward’s new Scent of Time collection inspired by seven strong historical figures. Mistigris focuses on Mata Hari – think more about the exotic life of a secret agent than the fact that she was executed by firing squad at the age of 41.

Jonathan Ward Mistigris Candle

The element that predominates for me is amber – there’s a beautiful depth in that respect – and one of the things I love about this candle is that it doesn’t overtake the room but plays out some big hitters subtly. I can pick out the earthiness of carrot seed and the spice of myhrr while the bergamot, white grapefruit and carnation act as softeners and don’t speak individually.

Jonathan Ward Mistigris Candle

Jonathan uses a casino analogy (Mata Hari spent time in casinos in Monte Carlo) – the rush of opulent decor combined with the thrill of chance. I find it more discreet than that, perhaps something of the sense of anticipation: according to legend she was almost unveiled as a double agent there, although if you want further reading on the life of Mata Hari, The Fatal Lover: Mata Hari and the Myth of Women in Espionage by Julie Wheelwright is comprehensive. Mistigris is £40 HERE.

 

 

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