Perfume, from its origins to today

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 2nd, 2017 – 6.30 p.m. - Length: 1 ½ hrs

Considered in the Egypt of the Pharaohs – the cradle of perfumery – as the “blood” of the gods, perfume was attributed great sacred, magical, preventive and curative powers. But over time, it broke its ties with blood and flesh and lost its religious and medical functions. From its craft origins, it evolved into a major industry. New strategies, such as those of independent brands, continue to perpetuate its creative wealth and status as a dream object. This talk features ancient perfumes reworked by a major contemporary perfumer using the original formulas.

Annick Le Guérer is a historian, philosopher and anthropologist of odor. She teaches at the University of Burgundy and has published several books, including “Le parfum, des origines à nos jours” and “Les pouvoirs de l’Odeur”.