Chinese Incense Culture (香学) · Incense-making Craft
Scenting and Aging
New incense is often dry and harsh; only through aging does it become mellow. Scenting is like scenting tea—it is the key step in blended incense going 'from mixed to harmonious.'
When blended incense is first made, the various notes stand apart and the dry harshness has not yet faded, so burning it directly gives a stiff feel. The ancients therefore emphasized 'scenting'—sealing incense pills, cakes, and powder into porcelain jars, placing them in a cool, dry spot, or even burying them underground for 'cellaring,' so they naturally mellow.
The Effects of Scenting
- Blend: The notes of sovereign, minister, assistant, and envoy gradually merge and no longer speak each for itself.
- Mellow: The dry, fierce qi departs with aging, and the fragrance turns softer and deeper.
- Settle: Moisture and stray qi dissipate completely, and the lingering fragrance becomes steadier and longer-lasting.
Timing of Scenting
Short as just over a month, long as several years. Withincense pills and incense cakes, the aged fragrance is more valuable. Its principle is akin to "scenting tea" and "aging wine," all gifts of time.