Pigmentarium Ad Libitum (Jakub F. Hiermann) 2018 + “Light of the Old City” Giveaway

 

Pigmentarium Ad Libitum

Pigmentarium Ad Libitum official photo

Pigmentarium is an independent Czech perfume house founded in 2018 by the creative duo Tomáš Ric and Jakub Hiermann. Tomáš Ric has an extensive background in fashion that translates into an aesthetic sensibility that infuses many areas of the brand –from the distinctive edge of the visuals to the sleek luxurious packaging to the olfactive profiles that veer away from mainstream trends. The name evokes a color palette – pigmentum in Latin means color, and pigmentarium is a Latin term that designated the place where scented ointments and colors were sold. The brand takes its inspiration from various elements of Czech history and culture, which gave us  world-renowned names, glorious architecture, and avant-garde movements, and verbalizes it to a manifesto where ethics and aesthetics meet in a singular point:

Tomáš Ric, Pigmentarium founder

Tomáš Ric, Pigmentarium founder, via the official website

 “Our early work was strongly influenced by an admiration of the work of big personas who artistically defined the world of the first half of the twentieth century. Particularly, architects and designers whose work was ahead of their time and is still relevant today and speaks vividly. A creation that captured an essence. The perfection of nature is reflected in the purity of materials. The brightness of spirit translated into basic curves and shapes. The first scents are inscribed with admiration for the authors of Czech and international modernism. That is where our journey started. From interpretation to self-expression. To a connection with contemporary artists and their ideas, to mutual creative dialogue. This is also how our perfumes became an inspiration for the creation of artwork, connecting and complementing each other.”

akub Hiermann, perfumer

Jakub Hiermann, perfumer, picture via official Instagram

 The inspiration for Pigmentarium Ad Libitum: “So familiar, yet new. Chypre perfume Pigmentarium Ad Libitum was inspired by the glow of the sunset over Prague Castle. The fading light of an energetic day symbolizes the upcoming nightlife. The first contact is mediated by refreshing citruses elegantly covered by the touch of aldehydes. Delicate jasmine and monumental cedar develop the scent in its heart up to the unusual scent of moss, patchouli, and musk. It all results in an elegant and slightly nostalgic fragrance that mirrors Prague in the way it might have been seen by Adolf Loos and Le Corbusier.”

Ad Libitum, a Latin phrase that translates to “at one’s pleasure” or “as desired,” embodies the essence of freedom and personal choice. It’s a term often used in music to indicate that a performer has the liberty to interpret a piece in their own style, adding improvisations or modifications as they see fit. This concept of creative liberty and individual expression is beautifully mirrored in the art of perfumery, where fragrances are crafted not just as sensory experiences but as personal statements that reflect the wearer’s unique identity and desires.

Ad Libidum Pigmentarium

Pigmentarium Ad Libitum, collage with images by Nicoleta

  “Prague does not have its name for no reason – in truth, Prague is a threshold between the life on Earth and Heaven, a threshold much thinner and narrower than in any other place…”

― Gustav Meyrink

Much of my love for Prague has been shaped by one of my favorite authors, Gustav Meyrink, who has lived a significant part of his life in Prague, depicting its mysterious nature in books like “The Golem” or “The Angel at the West Window”. Prague makes me feel like stepping inside a time-travel machine, each time I visit, with every cobbled path seeming to hold whispers of the past and whispered secrets of alchemical wisdom.

“I saw the city spread out beneath me like a fairy tale, and I understood at once that it was not called ‘golden’ for the sake of its hundred towers, but because it was luminous, like the gold which gilds the edges of missals or the haloes of the saints.” Prague is a city that has a mystical hold over those who walk its ancient streets, and let their souls be touched by the sense of historical depth and mystery that seems to be woven in the city’s fabric, and the tales drawing from ancient lore.

Pigmentarium Ad Libitum, collage with images from the brand Nicoleta ©

Pigmentarium Ad Libitum is a fragrance that captures Prague ancient soul. In the opening notes, we have a blast of soapy aldehydes that transport you back in time, stirring visions of old apothecary bottles, specks of dust raised in the air as you move them, to read the old labels, raising the caps and filling the air with the scent of secret formulas that taste tart, green, and medicinal.

As time passes, a benighted sepia filter that draws deep shadows is placed over the stone-paved streets, and the lights of the sunset bounce back with bitter neroli and the deep greens of patchouli and oakmoss. A nostalgic, old cologne aura made with citruses that have had their yellow light drained out until it’s a pale flicker that whispers of times immemorial.

It’s deep, nostalgic, and eerie, with an earthy appeal, like a corridor that lures you into darkness, tempting you to go deeper.

Launched in 2018

 TOP NOTES: tangerine, bergamot, aldehydes

MIDDLE NOTES: cedar, jasmine, neroli

BASE NOTES: oakmoss, musk, patchouli

Also, check out my reviews for Erotikon, and Genesis.

Nicoleta Tomsa, Senior Editor

Disclosure: A sample of Pigmentarium Ad Libitum was offered by the brand, opinions are my own.

Pigmentarium Ad Libitum perfume

Pigmentarium Ad Libitum official photo 

 Thanks to the generosity of Pigmentarium we have a 50ml bottle of Pigmentarium Ad Libitum for one registered reader in the EU or US You must register or your entry will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what sparks your interest based on Nicoleta’s review and where you live. Draw closes 3/13/2024

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50 comments

  • marla says:

    I loved the inspiration of the name
    Pigmentatium is a Latin term that designated the place where scented ointments and colors were sold.
    Ad Libitum, a Latin phrase that translates to “at one’s pleasure” or “as desired,” embodies the essence of freedom and personal choice.
    From EU.

  • Jeremi says:

    The inspiration of history and mysticism really sparked my interest, this fragrance has a very rich and opulent background. I live in Trzebnica, Poland, EU.

  • Sorohan Adriana says:

    Pigmentarium Ad Libitum it is a perfect blend of sophisticated citrus-aldehyde-earth notes with subtly sweet floral ones. This combination crafts a fragrance that exudes an unquestionably masculine and luxurious aroma. It is mormasculine ten feminine for my taste. I am from EU

  • olgAPOISON says:

    I love Prague, it was my dream city when I visited. I love bergamot and orange in the open ing. Perfumers are truly artists here. Im from eu

  • SonneS says:

    Nicoleta’s review of Pigmentarium Ad Libitum captivates with its vivid portrayal of Prague’s ancient soul translated into a fragrance. Her eloquent descriptions transport me through time, from the soapy aldehydes evoking visions of old apothecary bottles to the deep, nostalgic aura of oakmoss and patchouli reminiscent of ancient streets bathed in sunset’s fading light. Through her poetic narrative, Nicoleta sparks intrigue and a desire to experience the mystical allure of Prague captured in this evocative scent.

    I am from the EU

  • Salem says:

    Prague is such a grand, historical, even slightly intimidating city. It seems like there is bits and pieces of luxury on every roof, on every building, at every corner. What better way to capture that olfactively, than by the use of pristine aldehydes in a classic blend? By the looks of the pyramid and Nicoleta’s skilled description, Ad Libitum sounds like a classic aldehydic floral chypre, and I’d love to try it.
    From the EU.

  • rhuynh2005@gmail.com says:

    I really like the notes in this fragrance. I would love to try it out. I live in OK, USA

  • Arron_Q says:

    This sounds like a lovely, classic cologne style fragrance, which is a style I have only relatively recently fallen back in love with. (Thanks largely to Rogue and Darren Allen.) For many years I thought many of these scents were simply dated – and perhaps in some ways they are – but, they work and are known as classics for a reason. I would love to get to know Pigmentarium’s take on this style of scent. Best of luck to everyone. I live in NC, USA.

  • Teresa C says:

    Everything about this draws me. The name, the notes, Prague, the literature and imagery harked, the mood, the dark beauty; great review!!
    I live in the US.

  • Steve A says:

    My interest was sparked when I read the words, “A nostalgic, old cologne aura made with citruses…”. US

  • chamberoflilith says:

    I used to live close to the Czech Republic. Its presence, at a distance, was part of my journey, for a while. The luminous edges. I can remember little, but – as the mind’s eye does – I have kept symbols and fragments of repeating images inside me. The golden details on the walls of a beautiful cafe, the tall buildings, the trees, the men in coats. I wonder if I’ll ever return. Pigmentarium Ad Libitum could open a portal for me. One so tiny, I might miss it. But this is how some of the most important journeys begin. From Romania.

  • LINDA says:

    PRAGUE, A DIVE INTO THE PAST, A NOSTALGIC PAST, AN ESCAPE FROM THE CHAOTIC REALITY. THE BOTTLE IS ALSO VERY BEAUTIFUL
    LINDA (EU)

  • Damjan says:

    Based on this review, several aspects of Pigmentarium and its fragrance Ad Libitum are intriguing:

    Unique Concept and Inspiration: The concept behind Pigmentarium as an independent perfume house that draws inspiration from Czech history and culture is fascinating. Their focus on infusing elements of Czech history, architecture, and avant-garde movements into their fragrances sets them apart from mainstream trends.

    Aesthetic Sensibility and Visuals: The brand’s aesthetic sensibility, influenced by founder Tomáš Ric’s background in fashion, is intriguing. The review highlights the distinctive edge of the brand’s visuals, which extend from packaging to olfactive profiles. This attention to detail suggests a commitment to creating a cohesive and immersive experience for customers.

    Artistic Manifesto: The manifesto presented by Tomáš Ric emphasizes the intersection of ethics and aesthetics, suggesting a deeper philosophical approach to perfume creation. This commitment to meaningful expression through scent is compelling and may resonate with individuals seeking more than just a fragrance but a narrative or experience.

    Prague as Inspiration: The specific inspiration behind the Ad Libitum fragrance, drawing from the glow of sunset over Prague Castle, adds a layer of storytelling and ambiance to the product. The way the fragrance is described evokes a sense of nostalgia and mystery, capturing the essence of Prague’s ancient soul.

    Creative Process and Collaboration: The collaborative aspect of Pigmentarium’s creative process, including dialogue with contemporary artists and the inspiration for creating artwork, hints at a dynamic and innovative approach to perfumery. This collaborative ethos may appeal to those interested in the intersection of different artistic disciplines.

    Sensory Experience: The description of Ad Libitum as a fragrance that transports the wearer through time with its opening notes of soapy aldehydes and deep, nostalgic undertones evokes a sensory experience beyond just scent. It suggests a perfume that engages the imagination and evokes emotions through its complex composition.

    Overall, Pigmentarium and its fragrance Ad Libitum seem to offer a multi-dimensional olfactive experience rooted in history, artistry, and storytelling, making them intriguing for those seeking unique and immersive scents with a deeper narrative.

    I live in Croatia, EU

  • hthanass says:

    Thank you for sharing this captivating review of Pigmentarium Ad Libitum! Nicoleta’s vivid descriptions transport me to the heart of Prague, a city steeped in history and mystique. The meticulous attention to detail in capturing the essence of the ancient streets, the alchemical whispers, and the nostalgic aura is truly enchanting.
    The use of soapy aldehydes in the opening notes adds a vintage touch, reminiscent of exploring old apothecaries and unraveling the secrets of time. The progression into deeper, earthy tones with bitter neroli, patchouli, and oakmoss beautifully mirrors the transition of a city bathed in the warm glow of sunset to the shadows of nightfall. The reference to Gustav Meyrink’s words about Prague as a threshold between Earth and Heaven adds an extra layer of poetic allure.
    The concept of creative liberty and individual expression embodied by “Ad Libitum” resonates powerfully, emphasizing the personal journey each wearer can embark upon with this fragrance. It’s not merely a scent but a symphony of history, art, and personal identity. Thanks for introducing me to this olfactory masterpiece – Pigmentarium Ad Libitum. It’s a fragrance that invites one to step into the corridors of time and embrace the darkness with a sense of allure.

  • hthanass says:

    Thank you for sharing this captivating review of Pigmentarium Ad Libitum! Nicoleta’s vivid descriptions transport me to the heart of Prague, a city steeped in history and mystique. The meticulous attention to detail in capturing the essence of the ancient streets, the alchemical whispers, and the nostalgic aura is truly enchanting.

    The use of soapy aldehydes in the opening notes adds a vintage touch, reminiscent of exploring old apothecaries and unraveling the secrets of time. The progression into deeper, earthy tones with bitter neroli, patchouli, and oakmoss beautifully mirrors the transition of a city bathed in the warm glow of sunset to the shadows of nightfall. The reference to Gustav Meyrink’s words about Prague as a threshold between Earth and Heaven adds an extra layer of poetic allure.

    The concept of creative liberty and individual expression embodied by “Ad Libitum” resonates powerfully, emphasizing the personal journey each wearer can embark upon with this fragrance. It’s not merely a scent but a symphony of history, art, and personal identity. Thanks for introducing me to this olfactory masterpiece – Pigmentarium Ad Libitum. It’s a fragrance that invites one to step into the corridors of time and embrace the darkness with a sense of allure.
    From France (EU)

  • sarach says:

    Nicoleta’s enchanting review of Pigmentarium Ad Libitum unfolds like a poetic journey through the ancient streets of Prague. The soapy aldehydes in the opening notes transport you to a bygone era of secret formulas and old apothecaries. The transition into bitter neroli, patchouli, and oakmoss mirrors the city’s shift from golden sunset to nocturnal shadows.

    Launched in 2018, Ad Libitum not only captures Prague’s essence but embodies the concept of creative liberty and individual expression. The fragrance, a nostalgic cologne aura with an earthy appeal, invites wearers to embrace darkness like a tempting corridor. This olfactory masterpiece, blending history and personal identity, is a symphony in a bottle. Thanks for introducing me to this captivating fragrance.

    From France EU

  • Danu Seith-Fyr says:

    A fascinating voyage of a perfume from this enigmatic duo. Prague captured perfectly in the emotive words of Nicoleta. i am drawn like a moth to a flame. Immortal flickers tinge my peripheral vision, like the turning of an old film, glimpses into the secret pages of these streets. I live in SW France, Thank you Nicoleta

  • Nikki says:

    Whoa! I am just now discovering this patfum house and this fragrance features some of my particular favorite notes! Tangerine and musk are my absolute favorites- I imagine they smell so lovely this time of year! I would love to have the chance to be entered. The bottle is also great!

  • Max Corvinus says:

    Such a captivating review!
    The scent sounds relatively simplistic in its composition, but extremely powerful in its ability to take me to a place & time imagined by the author. Your review took me to the cobblestone streets & alleys of old Prague and its many secrets. I love the comparrison to the old apothecary bottles in a dusty alchemical shop – such power in that image. A cobbled street that leads into darkness is my idea of a good time as well. All in all, magnetic prose, dear Nicoleta.

    I live in Croatia (EU).

  • phuongmtran says:

    So exciting to read about new (to me) perfume houses. Nicoleta’s review was thoughtful and transportative. The concept behind Pigmentarium’s name is so deep and rich. Love it.
    – CA, USA

  • FragranceIsMe says:

    Thanks Nicoleta for bringing the inspiration of this fragrance to life. I enjoyed the olfactive journey you described that this fragrance from Pigmentarium takes us on. Thank you for the introduction to this Indie Czech house. Looking forward to learning more about their creations.
    USA

  • chiara says:

    “ It’s deep, nostalgic, and eerie, with an earthy appeal, like a corridor that lures you into darkness, tempting you to go deeper.”. Whenever a brand want to say something and talks deeply, I’m in. I want to find more perfumes like this! Perfumes should be for us, for our deep emotions.

  • chiara says:

    “ It’s deep, nostalgic, and eerie, with an earthy appeal, like a corridor that lures you into darkness, tempting you to go deeper.”. Whenever a brand want to say something and talks deeply, I’m in. I want to find more perfumes like this! Perfumes should be for us, for our deep emotions. I’m from EU.

  • WillRhodes says:

    This is one my favorite reviews I’ve read to date. I have such a deep love for Prague as I spent many Summers there working at an English Camp after graduating from Highschool. To this day, I have never felt such a connection to a city as I do with Praha. Hearing that this fragrance is inspired by this remarkable city immediately evokes a deep desire for it. Reading this review transported me back to walking across the Charles bridge seeing the sunset over Prague castle as mentioned above, and the warmth and magic of that city taking you back in time. I feel such a fondness and tenderness to this fragrance without even having my nose on it yet, simply because I know once I do, I will completely understand everything it is supposed to be.
    Thank you so much for this lovely read.
    -Chicago

  • Paeonnia says:

    It’s great to se a review of a perfume from Central Europe, created outside of mainstream locations. Ad Libitum sounds like a perfect hommage to a beautiful city. I’m in eu.

  • emorandeira says:

    For me it is very interesting to think that pigmentarium represent the soul of the ancient Prague. I can imagine the old streets in prague. Nicoleta draws a very nice image for this perfume. Iove Chypre FRAGRANCES so I know I would love this one.
    I Live in Spain in Lugo

  • emorandeira says:

    Nicoleta draws a lovely image for this perfume. Ancient Praga is the Best stage for a Chypre perfume. I Live in Spain in Lugo.

  • Trinity33 says:

    Prague is definitely on my list of places to see. I have a friend with Czech parents and she has been there several times. The history and architecture are phenomenal and she has spoke often of the loveliness of the land and people. I love a good chypre and Pigmentarium Ad Libitum sounds wonderful. I’m in the US.

  • Teresa C says:

    The meaning behind the name, the invocation of Prague, which is a city I have longed to visit for most of my life, the imagery described, history…this review makes me want to travel so badly to Prague! I live in the US.

  • jlsteckley says:

    The history was great to read about and the note breakdown seems right up my alley.

    From the USA

  • Freddie S says:

    “…like a corridor that lures you into darkness.” This imagery along with the depiction of fading citruses as the sun dips below the horizon is the perfect enticement for this scent! As Libitum seems the perfect companion to reminisce those famous cobbled streets. Cheers from Ohio! 🙂

  • ancaan says:

    I have read that Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and I hope I will see it one day. But before that I hope I will experience this city’s beauty through this perfume. Is seems to be nostalgic and truly captivating. I am really glad more and more independent perfumers step on the niche stage and give us the chance to know them by smelling their creations. Greetings from Romania, EU.

  • AromaDulce73 says:

    I always wanted to visit Prague and this article has resparked an new interest. I love sunsets and it’s cool that this fragrance was inspired by the glow of the sunset over Prague Castle. Looking at some of the notes this is something right up my alley. Tangerine, cedar & patchouli, yes please.

    Los Angeles Ca. USA

  • mmerline says:

    When working with familiar forms like a chypre, it’s always interesting to see how perfumers like Hiermann try to bring something new to the table. Pigmenarium Ad Libitum seems to take a counter approach, combining citrus, aldehydes, flowers, and the moss-patchouli-musk base in a way that sounds both lovely and reminiscent of classical fragrance. Nicoleta pointed out the different lighting this fragrance invokes as it progresses, which is a useful way to think about the mood of a fragrance. Would love to try its “nostalgic, old cologne aura”.

    I’m in the USA.

  • madamepeace says:

    Pigmentarium is such a unique and fascinating name for a perfume. I’ve always dreamed of visiting Prague for its old world charm. I am an old soul and treasure the traditions and history of lives past before. There is something so ethereal and ancient in the way scent can unlock such a primal and lived-in feel for us. I would love to smell the way the aldehydes smell like the sun setting! From OR, USA.

  • Tami H. says:

    This sounds so beautiful. Here is my favorite part.
    Pigmentarium Ad Libitum is a fragrance that captures Prague ancient soul. In the opening notes, we have a blast of soapy aldehydes that transport you back in time, stirring visions of old apothecary bottles, specks of dust raised in the air as you move them, to read the old labels, raising the caps and filling the air with the scent of secret formulas that taste tart, green, and medicinal.
    Thank you for the very generous giveaway, I live in the USA.

  • mleenstra says:

    This brand has only recently come on my radar and I’m obsessed with their Oratorio perfume which is an evocative green incense perfume. Ad Libitum also sounds really beautiful and I love a Chypre inspired by the majestic grey and mossy stones of the churches and gargoyles in Prague.Marit the Netherlands (EU)

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the great review, Nicoleta!

    This sounds like a fragrance that truly captures the essence of an old city illuminated by soft, golden light. The rich and inviting blend of spices reminds me of stepping into a bustling spice market. But what sets this fragrance apart is its ability to transport you through time and space – the heart notes of incense and amber evoke images of ancient temples and hidden courtyards.

    I would love to sample this.

    Cheers from WI, USA

  • Laurentiu says:

    I am curious about Ad Libitum as I see notes of cedar, patchouli and oakmoss – which I associate with masculine fragrances – being mixed with aldehydes and flowers – feminine fragrances. So the end result lets me wonder about the overall composition.
    Thanks

  • clarchik says:

    I am in the US. Prague is the most favorite city in the world and any fragrance inspired by it has my attention!!

  • opalbear says:

    I love the way you described it as nostalgic and flickering memories and history. The notes sound beautiful and this seems very well crafted! Would adore a bottle. I am in California, USA.

  • foreverscents says:

    I am fascinated by perfumers who are able to evoke a sense of place with their fragrances. Jakub Hiermann has certainly captured the beauty of Prague at sunset with Ad Libitum. The notes, especially the bitter neroli and the deep patchouli, will surely transport the wearer to the grand city.
    I live in the USA.

  • wandering_nose says:

    Nicoleta’s review is as poetic and gripping as it is informative – that’s straight up my favorite kind of perfume writing. I adore fragrant creations with a story, a deeper meaning, and here we are getting one with proper historic, artistic and aesthetic background to that. This is awesome and the founders of the brand & its creators get my utmost appreciation. Prague, being the Paris of the South, has earned my never ending love early on in my life and every time I’m back, I just cannot wait to hit the cobblestones carrying endless mysteries underneath. Just love the mystical hold Prague has over those who walk its ancient streets. The aldehydic glow leading to the deeper layers of green and woody notes, corresponds perfectly with the aura the city exudes. Now I miss Prague even more. Thank you for the draw. I am in the EU.

  • yvree says:

    Prague as seen by Loos and Corbusier is definitely inspriring. I am excited to see it may ne a fruity chypree with nectarine ans neroli. Anxious to try. I love in the US

  • donovanreich says:

    This sounds like a beautiful fragrance for the spring & summer seasons approaching. I love that it nods to perfumes of the past while also maintaining a uniqueness about it, certainly excited to try! I live in Arizona, USA.

  • Cuttyj77 says:

    This sounds right up my alley! I love the sleek design of the bottle. The review is really intriguing and written very well. Prague is one of my bucket list destinations due to its old history and wonderful architecture. There is definitely a sense of alchemical wisdom about Prague, and I like how this scent stirs memories of old apothecary bottles. Thank you for the draw! I’m in the US.

  • David Furman says:

    I love how he encapsulated the essence of the mysticism that surrounds Prague. By the description you would think gothic and mossy but after looking at the notes it sounds more like a classic yet modern springtime treat. I wonder about the longevity and its strength because of its citric nature. Doesn’t sound like you could go wrong with this one though. I would love to be graced with the bottle so I could see for myself. From Jacksonville, NC.