Antaeus (1981)
by Chanel

Antaeus is a masterpiece of its genre. The combination of myrtle and clary sage in the top note is an incredibly powerful reinforcement of the woody notes of cedar and sandalwood, and the perfect complement for the chypre accord of bergamot, oakmoss and patchouli. in fact the patchouli function in the chypre accord is helped by labdanum in the base, as well as being strengthened by the animalic notes of beeswax and castoreum. This scent has a wonderful sillage and longevity. It is attributed legendary powers of seduction. That's as may be, but for whatever reason, it undeniably turns heads. Some people put this down as a power scent from the 80s, and they may have reason to categorize it that way, but it is paradigmatic of its type, and far above even the best of its imitators.

This is one powerhouse classic that my many samplings and attempts to make a connection with, based on the positive hype here, have been rather futile. I do agree with it being a very "potent" and "masculine" scent. A dry woody-herbal scent that is a little too overpowering for my liking.

Antaeus has always been one of a kind. During the 80’s a lot of houses tried to copy it. Some did better than others, but none succeeded in developing a formula, that marks the end of the 70’s and the beginning of the new decade better than Chanel.
Antaeus envelops the evolution of modern fragrance. Leather, wood, rose and beeswax are prominent. Thyme, citrus, patchouli, bergamot and coriander play along. The freshness and depth are in superb balance.
Very potent. To my nose it doesn’t feel dated; it is a powerhouse that makes no excuses. Longevity is superb – 12 to 16+ hours on my skin.
It is at its best on cooler evenings in places associated with class and self respect. Not for the young crowd, but eventually we all get older… Not for the office, well it all depends if you can pull it off.
Yes, there are some differences between the one I use to wear during the 80’s and the new one. But for me personally, the current one is just as good. I don’t think Mr. Jacques Polge has gambled too much with his crown jewel.
One of the best fragrances I own.

Evening wear.
The ultimate non-adolescent scent.
Women miss this; like they miss masculinity, elegance, and wit. What more can one say?
It has a slight touch of tragedy, it conjures up past loves, moonlit nights. Romance. The bravery to approach beautiful women. Quiet confidence. Self worth.
No, you don't have to be tall dark and handsome to wear this--though if you are, and are using another frag, you're making a mistake.

Masterful.

Too strong, too pungent, too dated. Enough to make women run away.

So far my favorite frag (I'm new to serious collecting). Ridiculously sexy, but just an aura of lasciviousness--lusty and arousing--never lewd. I do not care for the herbaceous opening (too medicinal), but the sandalwood patchouli middle excites and calms simultaneously. Great longevity.