The Arabian Peninsula has long held a profound and enduring connection with the world of perfumes, establishing itself as a unique source of some of the most distinctive and cherished scents in history. Rich in aromatic resources, the region became a central hub for perfume production and trade, with caravans transporting these precious fragrances along various trade routes to the ancient world. This pivotal role in the perfume trade allowed the Arabian Peninsula to become synonymous with the origins of perfume, embedding the use of these fragrances deeply into the daily life and culture of its people.
Celebrating this deep-rooted relationship between the Arab world and perfumes is the “Perfumes of the East” exhibition, currently being hosted by the Saudi National Museum in Riyadh. Organised in partnership with the Arab World Institute in Paris, this exhibition marks the first stop on its international journey. It aims to document and celebrate the rich history of perfumes in the Arab world, showcasing the unique scents that have shaped the social and cultural landscape of the region.
Over the centuries, the successful civilizations of the Arabian Peninsula developed a unique identity in perfume production, turning this craft into an integral part of their cultural heritage. This legacy of scent has been carefully preserved through generations, maintaining the traditions and techniques that have made Arabian perfumes renowned for their rich and warm compositions. Key ingredients such as myrrh, frankincense, amber, oud, musk, and rose have come to define Arabic perfumes, known for their distinctive and luxurious scents.
The exhibition delves into the role of perfumes in the civilizations of the Arabian Peninsula, particularly their association with social and religious occasions, as well as with wealth and luxury. It reinforces the idea of the Arabian Peninsula as the “Land of Perfumes,” where the natural environment, characterised by scarce rainfall and abundant sunshine, created ideal conditions for the growth of myrrh and frankincense plants, which have long been foundational to traditional Arabian perfumes.
Running until 14th September, the exhibition offers visitors an exceptional multi-sensory journey through the history and practices of perfume-making, featuring over 200 unique artefacts and contemporary artworks. The exhibition is divided into three sections, each blending the past and present, beauty and culture. The “Sublime and Generous Nature” section explores the origins of perfumes, tracing the discovery and use of raw materials such as flowers, herbs, spices, and fragrant resins like frankincense, amber, and myrrh.
The “Scents of the City” section highlights the communal role of perfumes in Arab culture, showcasing how scents have been a collective experience, particularly in social gatherings of friends, family, and loved ones. The final section, “Fragrant Courtesy,” focuses on the social customs and traditions associated with perfumes in the Arab world and Islamic civilisation, such as the use of perfume and incense to welcome guests.
Through this exhibition, the Saudi National Museum not only celebrates the rich heritage of perfumes in the Arabian Peninsula but also highlights the ongoing cultural significance of these ancient traditions in modern society.
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Photo – top of page – Saudi Press Agency
