Eau de Parfum
Created in 2018

Dark Lord By Kilian

For Men
Eau de Parfum
Year: 2018
Strong
Sillage
Excellent
Longevity
Fall
Best Season
Evening
Best For

Fragrance Story

Dark Lord by By Kilian is a Leather fragrance for men. Dark Lord was launched in 2018. The nose behind this fragrance is Alberto Morillas. Top notes are Pepper, Sichuan Pepper, Bergamot and Cloves; middle notes are Jasmine Sambac, Rum, Davana and Birch; base notes are Leather, Vetiver, Cypriol Oil or Nagarmotha, Cedar, Patchouli, Oakmoss and Amber.

Composition Profile

woody 100%
leather 85%
earthy 70%
aromatic 60%
fresh spicy 50%
animalic 40%
white floral 35%
green 30%
warm spicy 25%
smoky 20%

About the Perfumer

Painting That Reflects Dark Lord By Kilian

The Demon Seated by Mikhail Vrubel

The Demon Seated by Mikhail Vrubel, 1890

This evocative painting captures the complex, mysterious aura of the fragrance. The rich textures and contemplative mood mirror the fragrance's depth and striking presence, while the bold use of color reflects its distinctive character.

Classic Song That Matches Dark Lord By Kilian

Song album cover

"Rhapsody in Blue" by George Gershwin, 1924

Like Dark Lord By Kilian, Gershwin's masterpiece seamlessly blends contrasting elements into a harmonious whole. The composition's elegant transitions between dynamic and serene passages mirror the fragrance's evolution on skin. Just as this scent brings together traditional and modern elements, "Rhapsody in Blue" merges classical structure with jazz improvisation, creating something sophisticated yet accessible—an auditory parallel to this fragrance's olfactory journey.

Fragrance Notes

Top Notes

The first impression, lasting 15-30 minutes

Pepper
Sichuan Pepper
Bergamot
Cloves

Heart Notes

The core character, lasting 2-4 hours

Jasmine Sambac
Rum
Davana
Birch

Base Notes

The lasting impression, 4+ hours

Leather
Vetiver
Cypriol Oil or Nagarmotha
Cedar
Patchouli
Oakmoss
Amber
Unique Character

Dark Lord By Kilian by By Kilian offers a distinctive olfactory experience that stands out from other fragrances in its category.

Artisanal Creation

Crafted with the finest ingredients and a blend of traditional and modern perfumery techniques, this fragrance represents the pinnacle of the perfumer's art.

Signature Style

Dark Lord By Kilian embodies the distinctive style of By Kilian while adding a unique chapter to their fragrance portfolio.

Character Profile

Dark Lord By Kilian is Ideal For

The Person Who Wears Dark Lord by Kilian

Archetype: The Shadow Sovereign

This individual is most closely aligned with the Magician archetype—specifically, its darker, more enigmatic variant. The Magician seeks transformation, wielding knowledge and power with precision, but when shadowed, they may slip into manipulation or obsession with control. Dark Lord—a fragrance of leather, rum, and pepper—mirrors their essence: intoxicating, commanding, and veiled in mystery.

Philosophy & Values

They are drawn to the interplay of light and darkness, not as moral absolutes but as forces to be mastered. Nietzsche’s "Whoever fights monsters should see to it that he does not become a monster" resonates with them, though they often test the boundaries of that warning. They believe in self-creation, rejecting dogma in favor of personal alchemy—turning base experiences into wisdom.

Yet, their philosophy is not nihilistic; they see meaning in struggle, in the tension between control and surrender. They value intelligence, autonomy, and depth, dismissing superficiality as a kind of spiritual poverty.

Style & Aesthetic

Their presence is deliberate, a carefully curated performance. They favor structured, dark-toned clothing—tailored jackets, fine leather, perhaps a discreet silver ring. Their aesthetic is neither gothic nor overtly sinister, but it carries an edge, an unspoken suggestion of hidden layers.

They appreciate craftsmanship—whether in a well-made watch, a rare first edition book, or the complexity of a smoky Scotch. Their tastes are refined but never ostentatious; luxury, for them, is about essence, not display.

Relationships & Social Dynamics

They attract others effortlessly, though few truly know them. Their charm is magnetic but controlled—they reveal only what serves their purpose. Romantic partners are drawn to their intensity, though some find themselves exhausted by the emotional labyrinth they must navigate.

They do not suffer fools, yet they are not cruel; they simply have little patience for those who refuse to think deeply. Their closest bonds are with those who challenge them, who match their intellect and refuse to be intimidated.

Lifestyle & Habits

They thrive in environments where power and knowledge intersect—perhaps in finance, law, or the arts. They might be a strategist, a collector of rare artifacts, or a writer who dissects human nature with surgical precision.

Their habits are disciplined but indulgent in measured ways: late-night reading, solitary walks through dimly lit streets, a preference for jazz or dark ambient music that mirrors their inner world. They enjoy risk but calculate it meticulously—whether in business, love, or personal experiments.

Light & Shadow

Light: They are fiercely intelligent, perceptive, and capable of profound transformation—both in themselves and others. They inspire loyalty in those who earn their respect, offering wisdom and protection in ways that feel almost mythic.

Shadow: Their need for control can curdle into manipulation. They may rationalize deceit as strategy, or detachment as strength. The greatest danger is not that they become evil, but that they become too comfortable with their own darkness, mistaking cynicism for wisdom.

Conclusion

They are a paradox—both sovereign and servant to their own complexity. Dark Lord is their signature because it is neither purely sinister nor merely sensual; it is a fragrance that demands attention without begging for it. They are the Magician at the crossroads, capable of illumination or illusion—depending on which serves their will.

Pros

  • Exceptional longevity that lasts throughout the day
  • Complex evolution offers a rewarding sensory journey
  • Versatile enough for various occasions and seasons
  • Unique composition stands out from mainstream fragrances
  • High-quality ingredients ensure a premium experience

Cons

  • May be too intense for casual everyday wear
  • Higher price point reflects premium positioning
  • Bold projection might be overwhelming in close quarters
  • Certain notes may polarize some noses
  • Not ideal for those who prefer subtle, skin-close scents

Fictional Characters Who Would Wear This

👔

Harvey Specter

from "Suits"

Confident, polished, and always in control – this scent matches his sophisticated persona.

🕶️

James Bond

from "007 Series"

Elegant yet dangerous, with a complex character that unfolds over time, just like the fragrance.

👑

Daenerys Targaryen

from "Game of Thrones"

Commands attention with a powerful presence that balances fiery intensity and regal grace.

🧠

Sherlock Holmes

from "Sherlock Holmes"

Appreciates complexity and nuance, with a distinctive signature that's easily recognized.

💼

Miranda Priestly

from "The Devil Wears Prada"

Exudes authority and refined taste, with an unapologetic boldness that demands respect.