Aesop Launches Astronomy-Inspired Candles

Skincare brand Aesop introduces Ptolemy, Aganice and Callippus, a trio of fragrant candles inspired by ancient astronomy and mythologies

For fans of Australian skincare brand Aesop, the long-awaited launch of its first candle collection may well be one of the best things to happen all year.

Three individual fragrances have been formulated in collaboration with French perfume designer Barnabé Fillion, the same nose responsible for the company’s signature oil burner blends and aromatic room sprays. According to Aesop’s director of innovation Dr Kate Forbes, the overarching concept for the collection was ‘the notion of candles as stars’, and the team looked to ancient astronomy and associated mythologies for inspiration. The resulting fragrances are layered and lingering scents, each named for a historical and noteworthy astronomer.

Ptolemy, named after the Greek-Egyptian scholar who first catalogued the stars, is earthy and woody, with deep green notes of cypress, cedar and vetiver. Aganice takes its name from the first female astronomer of Ancient Greece, and blends bright, fresh floral mimosa with the warm, spicy notes of cardamom and tobacco — a scent reminiscent of Morocco. Callippus is named for the Greek astronomer and mathematician and is marked by frankincense and vetiver, layered with hints of shiso leaf and guaiac.

As with all Aesop products, the candles are produced from vegan-friendly ingredients only. The ceramic vessel that holds each candle is minimal and elegant, with a raw alabaster exterior and a unique quote printed on the glazed interior. The vessels have been designed so they can be repurposed as a cup or a utilitarian container once the candle has burned down — the very definition of responsible everyday luxury.

Text / Suzy Annetta
Images / Courtesy of Aesop