Begum Xerjoff

Unisex
Year:

Fragrance Story

Begum by Xerjoff is a Chypre Floral fragrance for women and men. Begum was launched in 2015. The nose behind this fragrance is Chris Maurice. Top notes are Red Berries, Bergamot, Lemon and Freesia; middle notes are Damask Rose, Bulgarian Rose, Iris, Ylang-Ylang, Lilac, Jasmine Sambac and Lily-of-the-Valley; base notes are Sandalwood, Vanilla, Palisander Rosewood, Patchouli, Amber, Musk and Vetiver.

Composition Profile

woody 100%
rose 85%
powdery 70%
floral 60%
sweet 50%
warm spicy 40%
vanilla 35%
iris 30%
balsamic 25%
amber 20%

About the Perfumer

Painting That Reflects Begum Xerjoff

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 Begum Xerjoff

Song album cover

"Rhapsody in Blue" by George Gershwin, 1924

Like Begum Xerjoff, 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

Red Berries
Bergamot
Lemon
Freesia

Heart Notes

The core character, lasting 2-4 hours

Damask Rose
Bulgarian Rose
Iris
Ylang-Ylang
Lilac
Jasmine Sambac
Lily-of-the-Valley

Base Notes

The lasting impression, 4+ hours

Sandalwood
Vanilla
Palisander Rosewood
Patchouli
Amber
Musk
Vetiver
Unique Character

Begum Xerjoff by Xerjoff 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

Begum Xerjoff embodies the distinctive style of Xerjoff while adding a unique chapter to their fragrance portfolio.

Character Profile

Begum Xerjoff is Ideal For

The Begum Xerjoff Enthusiast: A Portrait of the Sovereign Archetype

The Essence of the Archetype

The person who cherishes Begum Xerjoff is one who moves through the world with an air of quiet command, a presence that is neither loud nor domineering, yet impossible to ignore. Their archetype is the Sovereign—a ruler not of lands or titles, but of their own carefully constructed domain. They embody the Jungian archetype of the Queen/King, the one who governs with grace, discernment, and an unshakable sense of self-worth.

Begum Xerjoff, with its opulent blend of rose, oud, and spices, is a fragrance of paradoxes: it is both bold and refined, warm yet aloof, decadent but never excessive. The one who wears it mirrors these contradictions—they are neither purely regal nor entirely approachable, but something in between, a figure who commands respect without demanding it.

A Life of Cultivated Elegance

Their tastes are deliberate, never accidental. They favor quality over quantity, whether in clothing, art, or companionship. Their wardrobe is a curated collection of timeless pieces—tailored silks, cashmere wraps, perhaps a vintage Cartier watch that whispers rather than shouts. They are drawn to dark, rich colors, deep reds, emerald greens, and midnight blues, hues that suggest depth rather than frivolity.

Their home is a sanctuary, a place where every object has been chosen with intention. A well-worn leather-bound book sits beside a crystal decanter of aged whiskey. The walls may hold original art—not for status, but because they feel a kinship with the artist’s vision. They appreciate the craftsmanship of things, the way a Persian rug tells a story or how a hand-blown Murano glass vase captures light.

Philosophically, they believe in self-possession above all else. They are not easily swayed by trends or opinions, for they have spent years refining their own tastes and convictions. Their values are rooted in authenticity, discretion, and mastery—whether in their career, hobbies, or relationships. They do not suffer fools, but neither do they dismiss others outright; they observe, assess, and then decide who is worthy of their time.

The Light of the Sovereign: Strengths

When this archetype is at its best, they are magnanimous, wise, and inspiring. They lead not by force but by example, drawing others toward excellence simply by being themselves. Their confidence is not arrogance—it is the quiet assurance of someone who knows their worth.

In relationships, they are loyal but selective. They do not give their trust lightly, but once earned, it is unwavering. They are the friend who remembers birthdays with handwritten notes, the lover who chooses gifts with uncanny precision. Their presence is steadying, a refuge for those they deem worthy.

Professionally, they excel in roles that require discernment and authority—perhaps as a curator, a CEO, a diplomat, or a mentor. They do not chase power; it finds them, because they carry themselves as though they already possess it.

The Shadow of the Sovereign: Flaws

Yet no archetype is without its darkness. The Sovereign’s greatest weakness is pride, the kind that can calcify into isolation. They may mistake solitude for strength, withdrawing too far into their own world until they become untouchable. Their high standards, while admirable, can turn into unreasonable expectations, leaving them perpetually disappointed—in others, and sometimes in themselves.

There is also the risk of aesthetic elitism, the belief that only the refined and beautiful hold value. This can blind them to the raw, unpolished truths of life—the messiness of love, the unpredictability of passion. They may dismiss what is "common" without ever realizing that vitality often resides in the imperfect.

At their worst, they can become cold, detached rulers of an empty kingdom, admired but not truly known. Their greatest challenge is to soften without weakening, to allow vulnerability without fearing it will diminish their power.

The Fragrance as Mirror

Begum Xerjoff is the perfect olfactory expression of this archetype—a scent that is both invitation and boundary. It does not beg to be noticed; it assumes it will be. The person who wears it understands this duality. They know that true sovereignty is not about dominion over others, but mastery of the self.

They are neither entirely of this world nor above it—they simply move through it with the quiet certainty of one who has claimed their rightful place. And in doing so, they remind the rest of us that elegance, like power, is not given. It is taken.

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.