Overview
Throughout history, people have applied scents to their bodies and clothing. They have carried perfumed objects, worn scented jewelry, sent scented letters, even exchanged scented coins. Aromas have been used to perfume private houses and public spaces from the ancient world to today.Gaining an understanding of how scents were used allows us to get up close and personal to daily life in any given period.
Some uses of scent are particularly revealing: the smell of the impressive quantities of blood spilt in the Colosseum of Ancient Rome was masked by a sprinkler system discharging saffron into the arena. Cosmus the perfumier's scented pastilles designed to hide bad breath were famous enough to be lauded by the poet Martial. Leather gloves in the Renaissance period stank to high heaven and had to be perfumed. The first designer perfume was created by the fashion designer Paul Poiret in 1920, who scented the hems of the dresses in his collection. The 'democritization' of perfume by the introduction of synthetic scent is a fascinating story in itself.
Susan Stewart's analysis is in line with the very latest research into sensory history, tailored to the general reader.
This book title, Common and Uncommon Scents (A Social History of Perfume), ISBN: 9781445693187, by Susan Stewart, published by Amberley Publishing (February 15, 2023) is available in hardcover. Our minimum order quantity is 25 copies. All standard bulk book orders ship FREE in the continental USA and delivered in 4-10 business days.
Unlike Amazon and other retailers who may also offer Common and Uncommon Scents (A Social History of Perfume) books on their website, we specialize in large quantities and provide personal service, from trusted, experienced, friendly people in Portland, Oregon. We offer a Price Match Guarantee, and QuickQuote form, to make purchasing quick and easy.
Prefer to work with a human being when you order Common and Uncommon Scents (A Social History of Perfume) books in bulk? Our Book Specialists are standing by Monday-Friday 8-5 PST, ready to help!