FRANCIS KURKDJIAN

Francis Kurkdjian is a renowned perfumer known for his innovative and captivating creations. Born on May 14, 1969, near Paris, France, Kurkdjian grew up in a culturally rich environment. His early ambitions included ballet, but after not passing the entrance exam for the Paris Opera Ballet School, he turned his attention to perfumery, a passion he had nurtured since he was 13 years old. 

Kurkdjian studied at the prestigious Institut Supérieur International du Parfum, de la Cosmétique et de l'Aromatique Alimentaire (ISIPCA) and graduated in 1993. His career took off at the age of 25 when he created the iconic fragrance "Le Mâle" for Jean Paul Gaultier, a scent that became a worldwide bestseller and significantly impacted the industry.

In 2001, Kurkdjian opened his bespoke perfume atelier, breaking new ground in an era of perfume democratization. He has collaborated with some of the most prestigious fashion designers, including Dior, Guerlain, and Yves Saint Laurent, and created fragrances for a variety of luxury brands. His work extends beyond commercial perfumery into artistic olfactory installations and collaborations with artists such as Sophie Calle and Christian Rizzo.

In 2009, Kurkdjian co-founded Maison Francis Kurkdjian with Marc Chaya. The Maison represents a blend of traditional French perfumery and modern innovation, offering a "fragrance wardrobe" that allows individuals to express their personalities through scent. His notable creations for  his eponymous Maison include Baccarat Rouge 540 and Aqua Universalis.

Kurkdjian's contributions to perfumery have been widely recognized. In 2008, he was awarded the title of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres. His legacy continues to grow as he remains a pivotal figure in the world of fragrance, known for his precision, creativity, and dedication to the art of scent.