Christopher Sheldrake is a distinguished perfumer whose career has significantly shaped the fragrance industry. His journey began in 1974 when a three-month placement at CHARABOT in Grasse, France, ignited his passion for perfumery. Under the mentorship of Master Perfumer Georges Cœur, Sheldrake honed his skills as an apprentice, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors. His early experiences at ROBERTET in England and CHANEL Paris in 1980 further enriched his understanding of natural ingredients and the fine fragrance world.
In 1984, Sheldrake joined QUEST UK (now GIVAUDAN), where he expanded his horizons by exploring global markets. His five-year stint in Yokohama, Japan, allowed him to immerse himself in local culture and create fragrances across various categories, from luxury products to detergents. This experience deepened his understanding of perfume chemistry and sparked a fascination with the spiritual aspects of incense burning.
A pivotal moment in Sheldrake’s career came in 1989 when he partnered with Serge Lutens, the Artistic Director of Shiseido. Their collaboration led to the launch of Lutens’ brand Salons du Palais-Royal in 1992, featuring groundbreaking fragrances like Féminité du Bois and Ambre Sultan. Over the years, they developed an impressive collection of nearly 100 fragrances, solidifying Sheldrake’s reputation as a master perfumer in the niche market.
In 2005, Sheldrake returned to CHANEL as the Perfumer – Director of R&D Perfumes, where he collaborated with renowned perfumers Jacques Polge and Olivier Polge. His innovative approach and commitment to quality have resulted in iconic scents, including the modern classic Coco Noir. As a founding member of the S.I.P.C. and Vice-President of the Osmothèque, Sheldrake continues to influence the fragrance industry, showcasing his dedication to artistry and excellence in perfumery.
