Mandy Aftel is the founder of Aftelier, through which she creates one-of-a-kind perfumes for individuals and private labels. Here, she resurrects the social and metaphysical legacy that is entwined with the evolution of perfumery, from the dramas of the spice trade to the quests of the alchemists, to whom today¹s perfumers owe a philosophical as well as practical debt. She tracks scent through the boudoir and the bath and into the sanctums of worship, offering insights of the relationship of scent to solitude, sex, and soul. Along the way, she teaches us the art of perfume-making, including many of her own recipes. Entertaining, informative and thought-provoking, this book is a sensual journey into one of life¹s greatest pleasures. Illustrations.