Penhaligon's debuts first fragrance exhibition in Shanghai

english.shanghai.gov.cn

When: Now to April 6

Where: No 457 North Shanxi Road, Jing'an district

Book your visit via the brand's official WeChat mini-program.

 

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An exterior view of the fragrance exhibition  Eau So British  by Penhaligon's. [Photo/Shanghai Jing'an Media Center]

The British heritage fragrance house Penhaligon's has launched its first-ever fragrance exhibition, Eau So British, at the former residence of internationally known entrepreneur and philanthropist Robert Ho Tung (1862–1956) in Shanghai's Jing'an district.

The exhibition celebrates the brand's 155-year legacy and offers visitors an immersive journey through its signature scents and craftsmanship.

"Bringing our first global fragrance exhibition to Shanghai was a natural choice," said a brand representative.

"Shanghai embodies both heritage and innovation, much like Penhaligon's itself. This exhibition bridges our story with a global audience," he added.

On display are around 30 rare archival pieces, including original perfume bottles, signature creations, and distinctive designs dating back to 1870.

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Some rare archival pieces from Penhaligon's are on display. [Photo/Shanghai Jing'an Media Center]

A key feature of the exhibition is a tribute to the artists and craftsmen who have collaborated with Penhaligon's over the years, helping to refine and reimagine British perfumery.

Among these creative contributions is Chinese artist He Xian's shadow puppet show, which blends the ancient Chinese art of shadow puppetry with Penhaligon's storytelling tradition.

Inspired by the brand's first fragrance, Hammam Bouquet, He Xian's presentation unfolds in six scenes. It illustrates how William Penhaligon captured the essence of jasmine, lavender and rose from a London Turkish bathhouse to create a pioneering fragrance.

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A glimpse of the shadow puppet show being presented by He Xian. [Photo/Shanghai Jing'an Media Center]

 

Source: Official WeChat account of Shanghai Jing'an Media Center at "jaxwzx"

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