The Fragrances and perfumes in al-Andalus: Their uses and containers

Abstract

This article examines the importance of olfactory sensitivity in the Andalusian culture from the consequent configuration of artistic works, whether these are sumptuary objects linked to aromatic substances or representations of these same objects. For this, it is necessary to pay attention to the most precious odoriferous substances, considering their origin and the long commercial journey they underwent until they reached the Iberian Peninsula. It is necessary, in turn, to verify which were the uses of the aromas and in which contexts they were used. Finally, attention is paid to the pieces themselves (censers and incense burners, small silver or rock crystal bottles, and pyxides) as well as to some representations of perfume bottles typical of the palatine environment.