The Legend: A son of Zeus and Maia (a daughter of Atlas) Hermes was born in a cave on Mt Cyllene, in an attempt to keep his birth a secret from Hera (Zeus’ eternally jealous queen). On his first day of life he sneaked out of the cave while his mother slept, stole Apollo’s sacred cattle, covered their tracks (and disguised his), hid the cattle and then lied about it (to Zeus) when Apollo finally found out what had happened from a shepherd who saw it all, and chased him all the way to Olympus and accused him in front of all the gods (much to their amusement!). He created the lyre as well, and when he pulled it out and strummed it, Apollo had to have it. Hermes asked that in return for the cattle, Apollo give him his winged wand *the caduceus* and Apollo agreed and received the gift from his young brother and they never fought again. He was bold by nature, and before returning his brother’s cattle he sacrificed two the Twelve Olympians (counting himself, of course!). His attitude and cleverness impressed Zeus and Hermes became the god of liars, thieves, travelers, shepherds, gymnasts, salesmen and messengers. He was perhaps the most busy of gods, yet always found time for love. He had many lovers and countless children. He was not only the messenger of Zeus, but the guide of newly deceased souls to the edge of Hades. He was sly, clever and ingenious. As capricious as he was serious, this god lived in Heaven, criss-crossed the Earth and had the Keys to the Underworld. He had a youthful face and thin sculpted form. He wore winged sandals *talaria* that moved him at the speed of thought. It was he who taught mankind letters, writing, mathematics and reading.
The Fragrance: A thick moist green wind bowls you over on initial application. Thick dense linden flowers and buckets of sharp and zesty lime juice greet the nose in something that is at once audacious and beguiling yet fresh and charming. After the deluge of limes abates, bright orange and dry woody marigold peek out. A floral heart of rare and exotic flowers from faraway places are blended together in a rich full accord that reminds one of late summer and early autumn. The finish is unique as a thicker muskier green settles and a warm cognac aroma pervades over fruity and woody hibiscus seeds and a soft (rather vanillic) buffalo grass. A daring and unusual scent for those who go their own way, and do not wish to smell like everyone else.
0.4 oz.
0.5 oz.
1 oz.
