The Influence of Ancient Greece and Rome on Perfumery

As the art of perfumery spread, it found a warm welcome in ancient Greece and Rome. The Greeks regarded perfume as a hallmark of sophistication and culture. Philosophers like Theophrastus wrote about the properties and sources of various scents, recognizing their impact on emotions and wellbeing.

The Romans took this admiration further, incorporating perfumes into their daily lives. Public baths were often infused with fragrant oils, creating an atmosphere of relaxation and indulgence. The Romans also innovated the distillation process, allowing for the extraction of essential oils from plants, which would significantly influence future fragrance-making.

Perfume became a symbol of status and refinement, with emperors and nobility indulging in luxurious scents. As trade routes expanded, ingredients from across the globe enriched the Roman fragrance palette, forever altering the landscape of perfumery.

In examining this era, we see how the foundations of modern perfumery were laid through a blend of cultural appreciation, scientific innovation, and the pursuit of beauty.