The Romans took good note of the Greeks' fondness for Fragrances, not only using but even abusing the use of scents. In Rome, image care was very important as it was a reflection of social status. Let's get to know the history of Fragrance in Ancient Rome.
Fragrances in Rome
The Romans scented their skin, clothes, and belongings, perfumed rooms and even public places. They brought exotic aromas from far away, unknown until then like wisteria, vanilla, carnation, or lilac. The Eastern influence brought aromas such as pine, ginger, mimosa, or cedar.
They were true Fragrance enthusiasts; it was there, in Rome, that the first guild of perfumers was established: the ungüentarii, Respected artisans who passed down their secret recipes to their descendants, protecting their creations, their name, and their business. There were more luxurious Fragrances accessible only to a few and others more popular.
- Solids, in powder or tablets: a scent formed by a single ingredient at a time, such as almond or quince.
- Liquid ointment: made with flowers, spices, and gums crushed in an oily base, usually olive oil.
- Powdered Fragrance: made with pulverized flower petals to which certain spices were added.
The daily life of the Romans was surrounded by delightful aromas. Bathing was a public and daily custom, a social meeting place where, of course, they could fragrance themselves at will. Women were the main users, but men also indulged in the taste for Fragrance. The favorite aromas came from flowers: narcissus, jasmine, lily, and violet, although they also used oils extracted from substances like sandalwood.
The arrival of Christianity meant a decline for Fragrance as it was considered a luxury and closely related to seduction. Nothing to do with the messages of modesty and humility that this religion spread. The use of Fragrance practically disappeared.
Which Fragrances from our catalog would have pleased the ancient Romans?
