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Scent in Culture: Seduction @ PRS Library (in person)
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This is an external event managed and produced by Philosophical Research Society.
Saskia Wilson-Brown presents a three part lecture series at the Philosophical Research Society Library, demonstrating the impact of perfumery on human creative and cultural expression, and drawing from her research into global historical scent practices as well as from esoteric teachings, metaphysical texts, and occult traditions represented in the PRS collections. The series reflects ongoing inquiries within the library’s holdings into ritual, embodiment, desire, symbolism, and the unseen forces that shape human experience. This research forms the basis of her upcoming book The Cultures of Perfume (D.A.P., Autumn 2026).
Presenting richly textured anecdotes interwoven with historical research, these talks will further root the topic in both contemporary and historic olfactory culture through direct experience of aromatic materials and perfumes. The lectures will last approximately 45 minutes and will be followed by ample time for questions, discussion, smelling, and story sharing.
Image: Detail from Coat of Arms with a Skull, Albrecht Dürer (1503)
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