Jean-Claude EllenaThe nose · 104 fragrances · also made Hermessence Ambre Narguile (2004)Portrait →Will you like it? Mark a few fragrances you own or love and we'll tell you.
Hermès · Sold as unisex
Elixir Des Merveilles Calligraphie
The hush of an artisan’s workshop where the scent of fresh ink mingles with aged parchment and warm, amber light.
Full bottle: Premium tier, typically $100–250. Links open each seller's own page. We may earn a commission; it never changes the order.
Elixir Des Merveilles CalligraphiePremium · $100–250
48%Similar accords, often for lessSatwa · Ard Al ZaafaranBudget tier, under $40 · shares 5 of its 6 notes8 matches →How it wears
From community votes · bars are each option's shareComposition & Character
Notes Pyramid
The story behind the bottle.
Elixir Des Merveilles Calligraphie, launched by Hermès in 2018 and crafted by Jean-Claude Ellena, is an Oriental Fougère that marries the warmth of amber and vanilla with the freshness of citrus. The composition opens with a bright burst of citrus notes before transitioning into a heart of balsamic and sweet accords, underscored by powdery and caramel undertones. This fragrance embodies a balance between modernity and tradition, characteristic of Hermès's approach to luxury.
Given its enormous sillage, one or two sprays are sufficient to make a statement. The fragrance's moderate longevity means it will evolve throughout the day, so apply early in the morning for maximum impact.
Fig. 01 — Elixir Des Merveilles Calligraphie, Hermès
Where to buy.
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Jean-Claude Ellena
The perfumer of transparencyJean-Claude Ellena is widely regarded as the most intellectual perfumer of the modern era — a minimalist poet whose work redefined what fragrance could be.
“Cézanne's watercolours contain areas of wash that don't overlap. I proceed in a similar fashion.”
Jean-Claude Ellena · The Diary of a Nose (2011) / Frédéric Malle bio
The Elixir des Merveilles line
3 fragrances, compared side by side
Designer Hermès
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Chosen from what wearers say it smells like, what its fans also love, and its notes
Love it, not the $100–250 price?
Matched by accords and notes. Sample first, then decide.
The originalElixir Des Merveilles CalligraphieHermès · Premium · $100–250Ard Al Zaafaran · 2018SatwaShares 5 of its 6 notesunder $40★ 4.68 (19)
With Zara Laboratori Di Saponi In Roma
Adds floral, rose and fresh spicy; shares cedar and patchouli and 1 more note.
Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers
What people
are saying.
Warmly received so far: loved by 55%, disliked or hated by 12%.