The fascinating world of scent invites exploration at a unique exhibition in Venice, showcasing one of the most comprehensive and rare collections of perfume bottles spanning thousands of years.
This special display offers Lykkers a chance to dive deep into the evolution of fragrance, from ancient times to the present day, all housed in the historic Palazzo Mocenigo.
About the Exhibition
Location and Duration
The exhibition takes place at the Museo di Palazzo Mocenigo, located at Santa Croce 1992, Venice. This venue is dedicated to the study of fabric, costume, and scent history, providing a fitting backdrop for this sensory journey.
The exhibition is open until November 30, 2025, giving visitors ample time to explore this extensive collection.
Opening Hours and Tickets
During the summer season, from May 21 to October 31, the museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM. From November 1 until March 31, opening hours shift to 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:00 PM.
Special extended hours are available from May 1 to September 30, 2025, when the museum stays open until 8:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, with the final entry at 7:00 PM. The museum remains closed on Mondays. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance, allowing easy access to this cultural experience.
The Storp Collection: A Rare Treasure of Fragrance History
Origins and Growth
The collection, known as the Storp Collection, dates back to the early 20th century, beginning in 1911 with the foundation of the Drom company.
Passionate collectors Bruno and Dora Storp laid the groundwork for what would become one of the world's most remarkable assemblies of perfume vessels. Over decades, the collection expanded, with significant contributions from their descendants, especially Ursula Storp, who devoted her life to its preservation and enhancement.
Scope and Significance
This extraordinary collection features over 3,000 pieces, many extremely rare, some dating back almost 6,000 years. It covers an impressive timeline from the ancient civilization of Egypt through the Renaissance period and into modern industrial times. Such an extensive archive of scent containers is rare globally, making this exhibition a must-see for enthusiasts of art, history, and fragrance.
Exploring the Exhibition
Chronological Journey
The exhibition is organized into thirty-two modules that follow a chronological path. Visitors walk through centuries of scent culture, from early aromatic practices to the sophisticated perfume bottles of today.
This structured approach allows an understanding of how fragrance and its presentation evolved alongside human societies.
Highlights of the Collection
Among the showcased pieces are ancient containers originally used for ointments, delicate porcelain vessels from the Meissen manufactory, and exquisite 19th-century decorative flasks crafted with precious metals. The collection also features examples of mid-20th-century industrial design, reflecting how fragrance packaging adapted to new production techniques and consumer habits.
Recreated Historical Scents
Adding a sensory dimension to the exhibition, seven historic fragrances have been meticulously recreated based on original recipes. These recreations, crafted by a leading fragrance house, help visitors imagine how these scents might have smelled, connecting the past and present in a vivid way.
The Meaning Behind the Bottles
Memory and Preservation
A central theme of the exhibition is the idea that while scent itself is fleeting, the bottle preserves its memory. The containers serve as lasting reminders of cultural moments, trends, and technologies.
Through these vessels, visitors gain insight into the lifestyles, aesthetics, and innovations of different periods.
Function and Symbolism
Fragrance has played many roles throughout history, from being part of health and beauty routines to symbolizing social status or spiritual practices. The exhibition highlights this diversity, showing how scent was integrated into daily life and ceremonial occasions alike.
Supporting Institutions and Curators
Collaborations and Expertise
The exhibition is the result of collaboration between several prestigious institutions and companies, including the Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia, a major fragrance manufacturer, a renowned glassmaking company, and an academic department specializing in cultural heritage.
This partnership brings together expertise in art history, scent creation, and preservation.
Curatorial Team
A dedicated team of curators and scholars from both the museum and a leading university guides the exhibition's narrative. Their careful selection and arrangement of pieces ensure a coherent and engaging visitor experience.
Final Thoughts
This exhibition offers a remarkable chance to explore the rich history of fragrance through one of the world's most significant collections of perfume bottles. By revealing the stories behind these beautiful containers and the scents they once held, the display connects visitors with a sensory heritage spanning millennia.
Whether one is fascinated by art, history, or the evolution of everyday objects, this exhibition at Palazzo Mocenigo in Venice invites all to discover how scent has been cherished, preserved, and celebrated across ages. The Storp Collection stands as a testament to the enduring allure of fragrance and the creativity it inspires.
Take advantage of the opportunity to visit before November 30, 2025, and experience this unique journey through scent history.
