The Odyssey of Frankincense in Arts

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Used and traded at least since Antiquity, the oleo-gum-resin exuded by the trees of the genus Boswellia, has exerted such a fascination on humankind that it is possible to trace its trail through some 3,000 years of history, particularly in art. 

From Egyptian bas-reliefs of the second millennium BC to contemporary art, frankincense and the trees which produce it have found their place in works of art, testifying to their cultural importance across ages and regions.

In this episode, Dominique Roques — a sourcer of natural ingredients for the perfume industry for over 30 years and tasked with establishing the revival project of this precious tree in Wadi Dawkah — speaks with art historian and Nez contributor Clara Muller. Together, they explore the role of frankincense and the trees that produce it in the history of art.

Photo : DR

Authors

  • Éléonore de Bonneval

    Cette photoreporter indépendante et « photographe des odeurs » a conçu des expositions interactives comme « Odorat, sens invisible ».

  • Guillaume Tesson

    A journalist specialising in gastronomy and spirits, and a member of the Nez collective, Guillaume is the author of Le Petit Larousse des cigares (The Little Larousse of Cigars). Attuned to tastes and smells, he is responsible for the Podcasts by Nez channel.

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