Parfums d'Orient, the exhibition that delights the senses at the Institut du Monde Arabe - photos

The scent of lavender transports us to the South, the smell of chocolate cake takes us back to childhood... Perfumes have an extraordinary power, enabling us to cross borders and eras. TheInstitut du Monde Arabe takes us on another journey, in the footsteps of perfumes from the Orient. This historical and cultural exhibition runs from September 26, 2023 to February 11, 2024.

Come and discover the history of Parfums d'Orient : in over 1,000 m² of exhibition space, past and present mingle in a journey that will stimulate both our eyes... And our noses! The IMA has brought together nearly 200 works, in the form of manuscripts, paintings, photographs, textiles, scented devices, videos, miniatures, installations... These pieces tell us about the origins of perfumes, the role of oils and fragrances, and the history of balms and fumigations. This journey reveals a myriad of cultural and social practices in the Arab world.

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Frankincense, myrrh, ambergris, rose, saffron, jasmine, musk, oud wood: each scent represents a people, an era, a practice. In the Near East, Arabia or India, the uses are not the same, and the plants differ. Fragrances are therefore veritable identity cards for the different cultures of the Orient. Different fragrances are a sign of the unknown, of mystery... And merchants have clearly understood the appeal of these original essences.

In fact, perfume is a major business: distilleries, sellers, noses, plant growers, beauticians... From plant to skin, the stages are numerous, as are the professionals.

In private or in the public sphere, the use of fragrances can also differ. These scents have very specific roles and uses, especially when health or religious beliefs come into play. The exhibition explains all these subtleties, which have evolved over the centuries and across cultures. Whether used to perfume the home or as an accessory to an outfit, as a weapon of seduction or as a means of communication with the gods, the exhibition gives us a glimpse of the richness of the peoples represented.

The Institut du Monde Arabe presents an innovative exhibition that delights our eyes and noses. These fragrances accompany us throughout the visit, without saturating our senses. This allows us to discover scents from elsewhere, and to choose our favorites (the journalist confesses to a soft spot for jasmine and kyphi). But this exhibition offers more than just aesthetic pleasure.

Customs, beliefs and traditions of yesterday and today are revealed in a journey that evokes both ancient Egypt and the contemporary souks of Oman. Engraved books, perfume burners and precious incense, photographs, videos or sculptures from the 1st century AD... Many historical and artistic treasures are brought together in this unusual exhibition.

Let your nose guide you, from one scent to another, from one work of art to another, and enjoy this wonderful journey into the world of oriental perfumes!