Neandertal Was Eau De Parfum

Neandertal was™ is the richer, deeper scent in the is™ and was™ duo—one crafted by master perfumers, the other generated by cutting-edge artificial intelligence. was™ develops on the skin with complexity: it opens with warm, woody and spicy notes, then unfolds into an unexpected softness of iris.

This intricacy is driven by a novel molecule, Diviniris, a new creation in perfumery that uniquely juxtaposes the familiar textures of iris and wood. The scent settles into a smooth blend of amber and clove, lifted by the bitter freshness of geranium and yerba mate.

Neandertal created this compelling and unique fragrance duo to complement our conceptual line—one that poses fundamental questions, with a particular focus on the future of our species and our evolving relationship with synthetic life.

Top: Yerba Mate, Bergamot, Cardamom, Nutmeg
Heart: Geranium, Clove, Cistus, Diviniris
Base: Vanilla, Cedarwood, Vetiver, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Styrax, Amber, Musk

Neandertal is a conceptual fragrance brand founded by Japanese artist Kentaro Yamada, who is based in London. The brand creates experimental scent compositions that challenge traditional perfumery norms while inviting reflection on humanity’s origins and future.

Inspired by both the echoes of our prehistoric past and the mysteries of human existence, Neandertal fragrances are designed as artistic expressions with highly original structures.

Notably, each bottle is handmade by Yamada himself, underscoring the brand’s commitment to creative craftsmanship.