Portrait


Luxury by Francis Kurkdjian

Hidden behind "Le Mâle" by Jean-Paul Gaultier,"Eau Noire" by Dior and "Rose Barbare" by Guerlain, Francis Kurkdjian is a brilliant man, dynamic, sensitive and smiling. This Armenian man, raised to take great pride of the Republic, addicted to dance, piano and stage, built his career by default (as he says). Hesitating between dance and piano, his heart will finally choose Perfume as a career at the age of 15 years old. Conversation with Katya Pellegrino.

Who is Francis Kurkdjian ?

Francis Kurkdjian


Born at Brou S/Chantereine in the French countryside, my father was an engineer and my mother was working for the French Education. I've got a lot of admiration for my father who, thanks to his courage and willingness, succeeded in receiving his instruction in a religious school, qualifying himself to reach the job he has (computer engineer). I was really sporty thanks to my mum and dad, i was practicing athleticism, cross country, dance and rhythmic gymnastic. I was addicted to dance on stage cause I could go further. I tried to become a professional dancer but failed at the entrance contest so, after a reading of a VSD article, i fell in love with perfume, 2nd most powerful industry in France. I was also addicted to fashion. I grew up in a loving family, full of respect for their host country, after the Armenian massacre.

Francis Kurkdjian

What is your definition of fragrance ?

It's in relation to the verb, words, humanity. It's caused by humans. To me, our humanity expresses itself olfactively.

What is your definition of luxury ?

An exceptional place, moment or item, because luxury is exception.

What is your most extreme luxury ?

The beauty of art and freedom.

The luxury you couldn't live without...

Freedom. I'm not interested in material. Freedom is essential. Some people are fighting for and are dying for freedom.

Francis Kurkdjian
Février 2016
By Katya PELLEGRINO
Website:
Maison Francis Kurkdjian
5 Rue d'Alger, 75001 Paris

House creations:

A la rose, Féminin pluriel, Amyris, APOM, Lumière Noire, Le Beau Parfum, Aqua Vitae, Aqua Universalis, 754, Oud Silk Mood, Oud Satin Mood, Oud Velvet Mood, Oud Cashmere Mood, Oud, Cologne for the morning, Absolue for the morning, Cologne for the night, Absolue for the night.