John Gerard’s Herball or Generall Historie of Plantes (London, 1597). © Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

This event is part of ‘Shakespeare’s Roses Stratford Weekend’, a collection of events based around ‘Shakespeare’s Roses: Sweetest Odours’, an interactive exhibition at Shakespeare’s New Place.

Leonardo’s mother was abducted in her youth on the banks of the Black Sea and sold into slavery. Slaves and perfumes followed the same itineraries and were bought in the same cities. Leonardo da Vinci was interested in fragrances and perfumes in various formats, like the Cyprus birdies/oiselets and pomanders, and wrote about them. He developed anatomically informed theories of sensations and also created complex 'alembics' (stills). His famous portrait 'the Lady with an Ermine' depicts a necklace made of bits of black amber. Similarly, Renaissance costumes and accessories conveyed beautiful odours. The luxury world of Renaissance Courts was full of elaborate smells and Leonardo’s life lead him to encounter many perfume traditions from various places, including Florence, Milan, Venice and France. The prospect of this talk is to offer a trip in this world of wonders.

This lecture will be given by Pascal Brioist, Professor at the University of Tours, France, and at the Centre d’études Supérieures de la Renaissance

This event is suitable for 18+. 14+ are welcome with an accompanying adult.

Please note, there is no need to book for this event, simply turn up on the day!

This event is organised by The Centre for the Study of the Renaissance at The University of Warwick and Shared By Resonate.