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60 years of Diptyque: a journey through art, fragrance and culture

Le Grand Tour
Logos of cities
Le Grand Tour Diptyque

Since its foundation in 1961, Maison diptyque has embodied a philosophy characterized by curiosity, openness, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world and its cultures. This vision was brought to life by the three creative founders - Desmond Knox-Leet, Yves Coueslant, and Christiane Montadre - and still characterizes the brand today.


To mark its 60th anniversary, diptyque is presenting the exhibition “Voyages Immobiles - Le Grand Tour” (Motionless Journeys - The Grand Tour). Celebrating the company's passion for distant lands, art, and perfume. The focus is on original works by five renowned artists, which were created especially for this anniversary and capture the founding philosophy.



Paris: Joël Andrianomearisoa and „Un temps après la jeunesse“


Madagascan artist Joël Andrianomearisoa's homage “A Time after Youth” is dedicated to the birthplace of diptyque - Paris.

His work combines literature, melancholy, and the brand's vision of the future.

The central element is a monolith filled with 34 perfumed signs reminiscent of diptyque's historic address on Boulevard Saint-Germain. The fragrance, composed by Olivia Giacobetti, reflects Paris: the nuances of waxed wood, old books, and tobacco. “Paris is a puzzle of harmony and contrasts,” says the artist. With this work, Andrianomearisoa invites us to relive the essence of the city and the brand.





Venice: Johan Creten and „La Laguna“


Belgian sculptor Johan Creten designed “La Laguna” - a bronze sculpture embedded in a four-wick candle made of blue glass. The artwork pays tribute to Venice, a city that inspired the founders of diptyque. As the candle burns, a maritime fragrance by Cécile Matton is released, reminiscent of the Venetian lagoon.


The sculpture symbolizes the fragile ecosystem of Venice and stands as a reminder of transience. In a limited edition of only 24 pieces, “La Laguna” remains a unique memento.




Greene: Zoë Paul and „The Cave of Chiron“


For Greece, a central source of inspiration for diptyque, South African artist Zoë Paul created “The Cave of Chiron”. The work consists of a curtain of ceramic beads, made using the Japanese raku technique, combined with an oval of fragrance.


The beads form a hand, a symbol of care, art, and healing - inspired by the mythical centaur Chiron. The fragrance, composed by Olivier Pescheux, captures the essence of Greek nature: Cypress, fig trees, and immortelle. Paul describes the perfume as a bridge to memories and inspiration.




Conclusion: An olfactory journey through art and culture


The “Voyages Immobiles” exhibition is more than just a retrospective - it is a journey through the visions and values of diptyque. The artists' works bear witness to the connection between perfume art, culture, and the stories that interweave places and people.


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