Design Edition №13 Aphrodite.

Design Edition №13 Aphrodite emerged in 2000 as the thirteenth entry of Les Beaux Arts’ museum‑like series. Inspired by the Greek goddess of love and beauty, the fragrance seeks to translate the mythic allure of sea‑kissed cliffs and verdant gardens into scent. Limited to 7 500 bottles, the edition was presented in a clear crystal flacon with a minimalist brushed‑metal cap, echoing the house’s curatorial aesthetic.

The composition leans on two contrasting pillars: a marine accord that evokes salty air over water, and a green heart that recalls fresh foliage after a tide recedes. By pairing these with a synthetic‑powdery base, the perfumer creates a bridge between natural freshness and an almost tactile, velvety finish. This duality mirrors Aphrodite’s blend of sensuality and delicate grace, making the scent feel both grounded and otherworldly.

At first spray, a crisp marine burst hits the skin, like the first gasp of sea spray on a sun‑warmed pier. The salty‑green accord settles within ten minutes, giving way to a verdant green heart that feels like freshly cut grass brushed by a gentle wind. Around the half‑hour mark, a synthetic powdery veil drifts in, softening the brightness and adding a subtle sweetness reminiscent of distant blossoms. As the hours pass, the powdery drydown clings lightly to the pulse points, lingering for four to six hours without turning heavy. The trail remains intimate, a quiet reminder of the initial oceanic rush, making the fragrance feel like a fleeting seaside memory that stays just long enough to be recalled.

Since its 2000 release, Aphrodite has been embraced by collectors who value Les Beaux Arts’ art‑first philosophy. The limited run of 7 500 bottles turned the scent into a sought‑after museum piece, often discussed in niche forums for its daring marine‑green juxtaposition. Wearers cite the fragrance as a perfect backdrop for gallery openings or seaside gatherings, reinforcing the brand’s narrative of perfume as portable exhibition.