Agonist

Agonist developed a distinctive identity at the meeting point of perfumery and Swedish art glass. Sculptural bottles for individual releases were associated with the work of Åsa Jungnelius and Kosta Boda. This approach makes presentation an independent part of the project, but the collection is best understood through the fragrances themselves.

The Infidel, released in 2009, opens with cumin, blackcurrant, and bergamot. Lavender, tonka bean, and magnolia form the heart, while patchouli, French labdanum, and amber make up the base. The bright fruit opening quickly moves towards dry spice and a warm amber-resin finish.

Liquid Crystal from 2010 is built around bergamot, wormwood, clove, and other spicy facets. Lavender, incense, and patchouli form the heart; vetiver, labdanum, tonka bean, white amber, and cedar create a woody resinous base. Vanilla Marble from 2012 follows another profile: vanilla, tiare, and almond lead to fig, orchid, amber, and patchouli, then to vanilla, tonka, benzoin, and sandalwood.

These three scents show the breadth of Agonist without turning one example into a claim about the entire collection. The Infidel combines fruit, spice, and amber; Liquid Crystal develops a dry spicy-woody theme; Vanilla Marble presents a softer vanilla-floral composition with a warm base.