The Complete Incense Book

by Susanne Fischer-Rizzi

 

English edition, 1998 by Sterling Publishing

ISBN 080699987X

This is a wonderful book with many beautiful photographs.  The author discusses the use and creation of incense in cultures throughout the world.  Europe, Egypt, Crete, Arabia, Israel, North America, South America, India, The Himalayas, and Japan are each discussed.  Since so many regions are discussed and so many beautiful photos included, the discussion of each region is fairly brief.  Nevertheless, it is packed with great information about historical uses, plants used in each region and the cultural meanings of incense.

Unlike so many other authors, Susanne Fischer-Rizzi had the foresight and courage to include recipes for incense from all of these cultures.  Although some are not practical, they still give a great idea of how these various ingredients are used in different parts of the world.  Although not a true incense "making" book, it is filled with great information for any incense maker.  Anyone who uses or makes incense should read this book at least once.  Buy a copy if you can find one, but if not, check your local library.

This book is considered a new classic by modern incense fans.