Parfums Funèbres – Sample Kit

Odorama 38: Olfactory Rituals of Death with Frank Bloem, Susanne Duijvestein, Steffie Baaijens, Caro Verbeek and Josely Carvalho

Death smells, and fragrances have always played an essential role in rituals surrounding the death. 

By means of historical, contemporary, and religious examples, we want to explore the relation between smell and death. In ancient times, people communicated with the dead by means of fragrant oils, and bodies were embalmed with perfumes to preserve them for eternity.  Scents can also be part of modern mourning rituals. How can people keep the scent of a deceased person alive? And which innovative funerary options are available? 

We won’t ignore the elephant in the room. What is the historical relation between smell and pandemics now that corona has shown its ugly face?