Scented States

About the Series: Scented States is a journey into the invisible yet unforgettable power of fragrance in shaping how nations present themselves to the world. From the opulent perfume protocols of Gulf royal courts to the meditative incense rituals of East Asia and the seductive politics of scent in Europe, this series reveals how fragrance becomes more than a personal signature; it becomes a national statement. Through the lens of cultural diplomacy, each entry uncovers how scent evokes memory, asserts identity, and projects influence. In a world where presence matters, nations, like people, wear their essence and in doing so, tell stories words never could.