Cécile Matton: The Jeweler Perfumer's Artistic Journey

Cécile Matton's path to becoming a distinguished senior perfumer began in the most unexpected place - Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. Born in Africa and spending her formative years surrounded by intense heat and abundant natural scents, Matton developed an olfactory sensitivity that would later define her creative approach. This early exposure to powerful, unfiltered aromas became the foundation of her artistic vision.

At fourteen, after moving to France, Matton began experimenting with essences, signaling the start of her fragrance passion. Her journey took an unconventional route through pharmacy studies before finding her true calling at the prestigious Givaudan Perfumery School in Grasse in 1992. Under the mentorship of renowned perfumer Jean Guichard, she honed her skills working on line extensions for iconic brands like Nina Ricci and Cartier.

Matton's international perspective expanded during her time at International Flavors & Fragrances in New York, before settling at MANE in 2007 as Senior Perfumer. Her creative philosophy centers on being "an artisan more than an artist," emphasizing the tactile, concrete aspects of working with materials. This hedonistic approach translates into fragrances that prioritize pleasure and emotional connection over mere technical prowess.

Known as "the Jeweler Perfumer" for her passion for creating jewelry, Matton brings the same meticulous attention to detail to both crafts. Her love for ingredients like nutmeg, green chypre accords, and MANE's Orcanox™ reflects her preference for materials that offer both complexity and naturalness.

Matton's portfolio spans major fashion houses and niche brands, showcasing her versatility across olfactory families. Her breakthrough came with YSL Baby Doll in 1999, an award-winning fragrance that established her reputation. Later successes include Viktor & Rolf Bonbon, Giorgio Armani Stronger With You, and her innovative work on salty notes in Mugler's Womanity, which helped pioneer the sweet-and-sour trend in mainstream perfumery.

Her collaborations with Etat Libre d'Orange demonstrate her ability to push creative boundaries. Exit the King exemplifies her modern chypre expertise, combining traditional moss and patchouli with contemporary Orcanox™ and aldehydic soap accords. The fragrance tells the story of power's decline through olfactory narrative, showcasing Matton's skill in translating abstract concepts into wearable art.

Remarkable People reveals another facet of her creativity, opening with effervescent grapefruit and champagne accords before developing into an intriguing curry-spiced heart. This composition demonstrates her fearless approach to unconventional combinations and her ability to make challenging ingredients accessible.

Named "Perfumer of the Year 2018" by Cosmétique Mag, Matton continues to influence modern perfumery through her commitment to quality ingredients and environmental consciousness. Her work typically involves 10-20 simultaneous projects, requiring constant olfactory training and collaboration with fellow perfumers. This methodical yet passionate approach ensures each creation maintains her signature blend of emotional resonance and artistic refinement.