Emperor and King, Napoleon
When Napoleon was proclaimed King of Italy in Milan on 26 May 1805, he united the dual titles of emperor and king, thus reaching the pinnacle of glory. Only Charlemagne had succeeded in uniting the whole of Europe under his rule a thousand years earlier.
It was the highest recognition of military and political genius, bringing the ideals of the French Revolution of freedom and renewal to fruition. All of Europe cheered the hero, and François Rancé, his master perfumer and devoted admirer, created a fragrance for him that represented his masculine and strong-willed character.
The fresh notes of lavender and orange blossom and the green and aromatic accents of anise blend with ambergris and cinnamon from the island of Réunion to form a symphony of exquisite harmony. Leather emphasises the masculine character, while cedar and moss give the fragrance intensity and longevity.
