Prague, a Czech silent film and the smell of a cool church all feature in Tomáš Ric’s account of Pigmentarium. In his conversation with Divinity, the founder talks about the places and memories behind his perfumes, as well as the first fragrance he bought for himself. This is an editorial summary of that conversation.
Where the idea for Pigmentarium began
Ric says the idea for Pigmentarium began to develop around 2016. He was interested in scent’s ability to bring back a memory and found inspiration in Prague’s independent art scene. According to the official Pigmentarium website, the brand was founded in 2018.
He entered the business without knowing everything it would involve, but with faith in his idea. Pigmentarium gave him a way to express his love of Prague through perfume.
Pigmentarium – Brutal
The first perfume that changed his perspective
The first perfume he bought for himself was Nasomatto’s Black Afgano. He remembers how he felt wearing it and how much it changed his perception of himself.
He hopes to create that personal connection through Pigmentarium too. Ric speaks of perfume as a work of art worn on skin, capable of provoking a strong response.
Pigmentarium Paradiso Limited edition
Prague, a film and a cool church
He links Erotikon to the Czech silent film of the same name from 1929. Paradiso reminds him of summer by the river and a grapefruit cocktail. Each fragrance is tied to a particular scene.
Oratorio grew from the feeling of entering a cool Baroque church. Ric recalls stone, incense and silence.
Pigmentarium – Genesis
Why he chose Brutal in the conversation
Although he tries not to choose favourites, at the time of the conversation he singled out Brutal. He describes tuberose, jasmine and ylang-ylang alongside tobacco, coffee and a bitterness that reminds him of a negroni.
It is the pairing of flowers with those darker, bitter scents that appeals to him. If you are curious about coffee with flowers and other notes, read our article on coffee in perfume.
Pigmentarium – Oratorio
Working with Czech artists
Ric works with artists on limited editions, inviting them to interpret the perfumes in their own way. These collaborations also give him a way to introduce Czech culture to people abroad.
Explore the scents in the Pigmentarium collection at Divinity. For more founders’ stories, read our conversations about Pierre Guguen and L'Orchestre and Quentin Dorado and Sora Dora.
