Description
Nestled in Swiss Alpine pastures at the heart of a tranquil village stands the majestic wooden Grand Chalet. In this serene landscape, with its restorative climate, the painter Balthus made his home, inspired by the scents of milk, honey, and the subtle citrus of ancient lime trees surrounding his studio. Today, his favorite fragrance returns, evoking that enchanting memory. Created with Setsuko Klossowska de Rola and Françoise Caron, it blends essences of mimosa, myrtle, bergamot, linden flower, heliotrope, sandalwood, and musk.
The incense itself is crafted on Awaji Island, renowned for producing the world’s finest incense for over a thousand years. Here, Masters of Aroma preserve a tradition passed down through generations, carefully balancing natural ingredients such as precious woods, herbs, plants, and resins through four meticulous stages: blending and kneading, resting, cutting, and drying in the island’s west wind before each stick is bundled.
Founded in 1996, Astier de Villatte is a Parisian atelier dedicated to preserving and reimagining tradition. Its ceramics workshop updates 18th-century Parisian techniques, while its suburban printing press, the last in France, continues the art of lead-type books. The publishing house has produced Ma Vie à Paris, Drawings with Lou Doillon, and a new edition of Mitsou by Balthus. Its perfume studio partners with master noses to create colognes, skincare, incense, gums, and a candle collection inspired by scents from around the world.
Source:
Awaji
Dimensions:
L15 x D6 x H2 cm
Regular Box – 125 sticks
Average burn time of 30 mins each.
scentedwanderer –
I was drawn to the Grand Chalet incense for its unique blend of alpine-inspired scents. The linden flower and sandalwood create a calming atmosphere in my living room. Each stick burns evenly for about 30 minutes, just as described. While the price point is on the higher side, the quality of ingredients and craftsmanship makes it worthwhile. The packaging is simple yet elegant, perfect for gifting. I’d recommend this to anyone who appreciates artisanal fragrances.