During the civilizations of antiquity, perfume was presented as an offering to the gods. It was believed to sublimate the body and make it more god-like.
In the civilizations of antiquity, from Egypt to Greece, fragrance did not exist as such. Flowers, scented plants, gums and resins were raw materials to be used during the ceremonies dedicated to the gods. As the years went by, the interest in fragrant substances intensified and the ways in which they were used multiplied : fumigations, oils, balms, fermented liquors ... Both rich and poor used them in an attempt to get closer to the gods, in the belief that fragrance glorified their beauty and their power. It was believed that fragrance made the body more perfect and healed its ailments. This lofty image changed during the years of decadence that followed and fragrance became an important element of raucous orgies.
1
Perfume vase in form of female head. Bronze. Etruria. Hellenistic period. Louvre Museum.
2
Cosmetic spoon in the form of a swimmer.
3
Woman pouring perfume into a vial. Roman art.
(27 BC - 395.)
