If there is a candle that can turn my humble abode into an Indian palace, Maharadjah by Parfums de Nicolaï would be my choice for the task, which it does beautifully with its spicy and rich fragrance. The sparkling effect of ginger is amplified by the winey effervescence of patchouli that evokes a vision of golden dust swirling in the air. Sweet sandalwood lends a rosy creaminess that balances the hot burst of spices and herbs.
The quality of the candle is outstanding, attesting to the attention Patricia de Nicolaï, a grand-daughter of Pierre Guerlain, devotes to her creations. The scent is long lasting, with a beautiful throw, and the soot and smoke problems that are common among other candles, even rather expensive ones, are minimal. The elegant glass comes with a lovely golden lid which one can use to extinguish the candle. Each candle gives about 48 hours of gorgeous scent that is perfect for the cold winter evenings, when few things manage to dispel the darkness and gloom quite as effectively as Maharadjah.
Another wonderful way of enjoying Parfums de Nicolaï room fragrances is to acquire a burning lamp. Although it requires an initial investment of $99, the lamp includes one refill, which can be replaced for almost half of the price of each candle. The lamps are available in different shapes, suiting various interiors and tastes. One only requires to light the lamp and then wait for two minutes to blow out the flame. The fragrance pervades the room faster and more potently than a candle would, while nevertheless retaining the same spicy quality that makes Maharadjah appealing. In addition, I find that each refill lasts for several months at my rate of burning (about once a week), however if used daily, it can still offer about one month of enjoyment.
The candle is $45. A burning lamp with one refill is $99; a 250 ml refill is $25. For buying information, see the listing for Parfums de Nicolaï under Perfume Houses.
V, your reviews always make me want to rush out and buy the item! This both sounds and looks gorgeous, what with the gold rim and lid. I discovered recently that Parfums de Nicolai make most of their turnover from home fragrance products, especially Maharadjah, and your review suggests why this woud be so. Thank you! N
I have the Maharadjah in the burning oil that's supposed to be put on a lamp ring but I put mine in my electric Aromastone and it works wonderfully.
I agree with your comments about this particular scent. Have you seen the perfume version of it? I'm not even sure whether she still makes it but it was just like the room fragrance. very exotic.
Barry
N, I am glad. 🙂 I am not surprised about the turnover on the home fragrances, because the quality is fantastic. I actually would urge purchasing their lamps, because they are so much less fuss than candles. I like many of their scents.
Barry, I still see Maharadjah fragrance available, and I love it–rich, spicy, exotic.
I should try your idea the next time. I have a very pretty burning lamp (purchased in Ukraine) that functions like Aromastone, and it needs to be used more often.
I wanted so badly to be able to wear this scent as a fragrance, but the lavender was far too strong. Will have to try the candle to see if it's more subdued. The rest of the notes are lovely.
I grew to like it, but I agree–the lavender is strong. In this case, I think that you might really like the room fragrance, because I notice more of the spicy notes when the candle is burning.