In a fascinating archaeological discovery, a valuable bottle of Roman perfume from around Jesus Christ's time was opened, revealing the sensorial world of wealthy ancient Romans.
A significant archaeological find was made in the Spanish town of Carmona in 2019. Locals summoned Juan Manuel Román, an archaeologist from Pablo de Olavide University in Seville, to the location of a swimming pool construction site. He did not know this bland incident would reveal a remarkable old tomb.
Román entered the tomb after squeezing through a tiny opening and was shocked to see it unharmed after two millennia of repose. The burial site included the bones of three men and three women and a rich assortment of artifacts. One of these priceless objects was a perfume vial made of quartz that was thought to date way back to the first century CE.
Curiosity drove experts from the University of Córdoba to begin a composition investigation of the scent. Their results, published in Heritage after years of diligent study, illuminate the scented world of wealthy Romans in ancient times.
None other than Patchouli would have thrilled these ancient Roman nobles' senses. Artnet best characterizes Patchouli as "that love-it-or-hate-it musty aroma you probably recall from your college dorm." This find is considered the earliest identification of a Roman perfume since perfume ingredients seldom survive, the Smithsonian Magazine reported.
With its earthy and musky aroma, Patchouli was a rare and valuable substance in ancient times. Its Indian heritage increased its exclusivity. According to Vicente G. Olaya of the Spanish daily El Pas, the use of Patchouli in the perfume reflects the owners' affluence and privileged position.
How did it Survive?
The perfume's aroma survived thanks to the burial site's excellent preservation. The scent persisted in the tomb's darkness, but light would have eliminated it. According to the Evening Standard, this remarkable discovery may benefit research organizations and corporations trying to reproduce old scents.
Researchers write that their discovery is “possibly the first time a perfume from Roman times has been identified.” https://t.co/o83sh0KcJm
— Smithsonian Magazine (@SmithsonianMag) June 7, 2023
However, it is essential to remember that throughout that time, fragrances were only used by members of the upper classes of society. A wealthy owner would have this exotic perfume, presumably bought from other regions and housed in a luxurious jar.
The perfume bottle itself contributes to the narrative of exclusivity and luxury. Romans valued quartz vessels as particularly rare and priceless; comparable artifacts were discovered close to Carmona. Its rarity is further highlighted by the tightly sealed quartz vial, embellished with an unusual dolomite stopper and kept together by a material resembling tar.
What Was The Purpose of The Perfume
Whether the ancient Roman perfume was used daily or had spiritual or funeral value is unknown. Though, the unopened bottle in a burial urn symbolizes a private gesture, per Science News.
Patchouli may have been connected with death, according to Girona University historian Jordi Pérez González. He observes that if luxury cannot be flaunted in front of society, it has no use.
The latest discovery of the antique perfume bottle helps the holistic reconstruction of ancient life, including sensory experiences like smells and sounds and deepening our grasp of Roman civilization. Patchouli's hidden scent tells a story of old luxury and sensual pleasure hidden from the world for generations.
