Perfume is used in many cultures, but a Mycenaean Greek would hardly recognize what we call “perfume” today. His product was olive oil, scented, and even colored, with various aromatic substances. We have evidence for some ingredients, and for how scented oil was manufactured. We know something about its various uses, and we know that it was a highly valuable trading commodity. In this presentation we will look at the recipes and the results, based on evidence from archaeology and the Linear B tablets. This year the New York-based perfumer Michael Nordstrand has recreated a Mycenaean perfume, using traditional ingredients and methods, and a modern version. Prof. Shelmerdine hopes to bring samples of his work to share with the audience.

Cynthia W. Shelmerdine is Robert M. Armstrong Centennial Professor of Classics, emerita, at The University of Texas at Austin, and Research Affiliate in Classics at Bowdoin College. Her research interests are in Aegean Bronze Age archaeology, and the language, history and society of Mycenaean Greece.

NOTE: The presentation will be live at USM (203 Wishcamper Center). A Zoom link will be sent out prior to the event.