The Smell of Sanctity: An Olfactory Exploration of Faith, Chemistry, and Decay

Olfactory artist and perfumer Gabriel De Carvalho presents 'The Smell of Sanctity: From Devotion to Decomposition,' a multi-sensory exhibition at The Olfactory Art Studio in London from 26 to 30 November 2025. The installation explores the historical concept of the 'odour of sanctity'—the sweet fragrance said to emanate from saints—through the lens of biochemistry, using bespoke scent compositions, sculptural diffusers, and light to blur the boundaries between sacred spaces and scientific laboratories.