The art of perfume in the 17th century

Jacqueline Padilla gives a lecture on the art of perfume in the 17th century at the Château de Grignan, as part of the Sévigné Year.

The talk marks the 400th anniversary of the birth of the Marquise de Sévigné and explores the role of fragrance in a sweet-scented century. Under the influence of Louis XIV, perfume grew into a genuine art form at Versailles and in courts throughout Europe. The speaker follows its story from the garden of therapeutic simples (jardin des simples) and cosmetic practices to the golden age of perfume, and takes the audience on an interactive sensory journey.

The lecture is held in the Tinel room (salle du Tinel) and is followed by a Q&A session. Tickets cost €10 to €13, and admission to the château is included. The €10 rate applies with the Pass conférence, which can only be bought by phone or on site. A second lecture is planned for Saturday 14 November: “Madame de Sévigné dans le patrimoine départemental : mythe ou réalité ?”.