Scent, Colour and Glitter in the Ancient World: A Comparative History of Aromatics, Cosmetics and Adornment, from the Mediterranean to the China Seas

Aromatics, cosmetics and personal adornment have had a major role in the evolution of human society, particularly in the cradles of civilization between the Nile and the Indus.

Far from being concerned with the frivolities of vain pursuits, their study touches on religion, cosmology, rituals and magic, life and the afterlife, sexuality and procreation, artistic expression, technology, craftsmanship, aesthetics, administrative structures, long—distance trade and cross—cultural exchanges – in...