Biography
At the age of 15, when he decided to become a perfumer despite his complete lack of knowledge about the profession, Francis Kurkdjian couldn’t possibly have imagined where this path would lead him. However, he quickly understood that it would be replete with discipline and perseverance – values he learned during years of piano and ballet lessons.
For the past twenty years he has channelled his passion, determination and devotion into perfume, which fills his days, and sometimes his nights. His relationship with perfume has deepened over the years while remaining true to the values and tradition of fine perfumery. Yet he consistently seeks to break the moulds, free perfume from its bottle and open up doors leading to new lands.
1969
Birth
1985
Decides to become a perfumer
1990
Enrols in ISIPCA, the international school of perfumery in Versailles
Joins Quest International, a fragrance producer
At the same time, enrols in a post-graduate programme at the
Institut Supérieur de Marketing du Luxe
1993
Creates Le Mâle, the first men's fragrance by Jean Paul Gaultier
1995
Joins the New York office of Quest International
1999
Returns to Paris
2001
Opens his bespoke perfume workshop
2003
Launches his first artistic collaboration with Sophie Calle
2004
Meets Marc Chaya
2006
Produces his first olfactory installation for Versailles Off
2009
Co-founds Maison Francis Kurkdjian with Marc Chaya
Wins the Prix François Coty for his lifetime achievements (October 2001)
Is voted nose of the year by Cosmétique Magazine (June 2008)
Is named a Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres (July 2008)