Why it belongs in ORBIS
Perfumer Stéphane Humbert Lucas, a synesthete trained as a painter, launched La Collection 777 in 2012, inspired by his Middle East travels and the symbolism of the number seven.
Stéphane Humbert Lucas was born in 1971 in Épinal, France, and trained originally as a painter, studying tempera technique in Antibes under a Flemish master before continuing his art training in Paris's Montparnasse quarter. He describes his perfumery work as shaped by synesthesia — perceiving scent in terms of color and imagery — a sensibility that developed after a formative meeting with perfumer Henri Sorsana. Before launching his eponymous house, Lucas worked as the nose behind other niche brands, including Nez à Nez and SoOud. His first collection under his own name, La Collection 777, launched in 2012, drawing on his travels through the Middle East and organized around the number seven, which he associates with perfection, happiness, and wisdom. He later added La Collection Serpent as a second line. Individual fragrances in the 777 range include God of Fire, Venom Incarnat, and The Queen and the Viper, alongside higher-priced offerings such as Soleil de Jeddah, O Hira, and Oumma. The brand is carried by retailers including Printemps and Harrods.