The modern Persian barbat resembles the oud, although differences include a smaller body, longer neck, a slightly raised fingerboard, and a sound that is distinct from that of the oud.

Oct 20, 2025 · Oud is one of the most mysterious and expensive perfumery ingredients. Its lore is so profusely rich and oversized that perfume marketing departments can only dream of such a layered …

Jan 17, 2025 · Oud, now a symbol of luxury, has a long and storied past that predates modern perfumery by a couple thousand years. Rooted in religion and spirituality—and then a victim of …

The oud appeared in medieval Persia as the barbaṭ in the 7th century ce. Its name, from Arabic ʿūd (“wood”), refers to its aloe wood belly, in contrast to the skin bellies of earlier lutes.

Oud is derived from the tropical agar tree and can be found naturally growing in the Middle East. It’s thought to have originated in Assam, India. When the agar tree becomes infected by a mould called …

Mar 2, 2025 · Oud has been an inherent element of Middle Eastern tradition; from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Turkiye to India, Indonesia, Vietnam and France, oud …

Discover the origins, history and cultural significance of oud in this guide to the world’s most coveted woody scent.

Jul 13, 2025 · Oud, also called oudh or agarwood, is a fragrant, resinous wood used in incense and perfumery. It forms in the trunk and roots of Aquilaria trees and is especially popular in the Middle …

Aug 10, 2025 · Before the lute sang courtly ballads, the oud wept across empires—fretless, poetic, and ancient, it journeyed from Ur to Córdoba, carried by legends like Ziryab and crafted with near …

Uncover the history and magic of artisanal oud. From its rare origins to its global significance, explore why oud is the prized "liquid gold" of perfumery.