
Francis Kurkdjian
Luminous, radiant compositions that balance precision with emotion. Known for transparent musks, sophisticated florals, and that distinctive MFK glow.
“My creations are an invitation to choose the scent that suits you daily, because I like the idea that each woman and man can express a part of themselves through perfume.”— Interview with Maison Francis Kurkdjian
Maison Francis Kurkdjian was born in 2009 from the encounter between Francis Kurkdjian, a renowned perfumer with scores of successful creations to his name, and Marc Chaya, Co-founder and President of the fragrance house. At only 24, Francis Kurkdjian composed his first perfume, "Le Male" by Jean Paul Gaultier, an international best-seller and game-changer of its time. Instead of relying on a very promising start to his career, he decided, as a precursor, to explore new possibilities and give olfactory creation a new artistic dimension. In keeping with his visionary outlook, in 2001 he set up his tailor-made perfume workshop, against the general tendency of perfume democratization, while constantly putting his know-how and sensibility at the service of the greatest fashion designers (Rick Owens, Hedi Slimane, Riccardo Tisci, Alber Elbaz or John Galliano), as well as the most iconic houses (Dior, Guerlain or Saint-Laurent). From 2003, artists like Sophie Calle, Christian Rizzo or Sarkis called on him to compose his first olfactory compositions - the starting point of his quest to break down the boundaries between different fields and the senses. In 2008, he was named Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres.
Approach
Luminous, radiant compositions that balance precision with emotion. Known for transparent musks, sophisticated florals, and that distinctive MFK glow.
“A visionary who transformed the industry, balancing commercial success with artistic integrity. His work bridges the worlds of mainstream appeal and niche craftsmanship.”
Distinctive Notes
Signature Accords
- Tobacco100%
- Marine90%
- Ozonic88%
Derived from 217 compositions in the Scentsation catalog.
Career Milestones
Graduates from ISIPCA
Completes his training at the prestigious French perfumery school.
Creates Le Male for Jean Paul Gaultier
An instant classic that became one of the best-selling masculine fragrances of all time.
Opens bespoke perfume atelier
Begins creating one-of-a-kind fragrances for private clients.
First artistic collaboration
Partners with artist Sophie Calle on olfactory installations.
Versailles Off
Creates landmark olfactory installation at the Palace of Versailles.
Named Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres
Receives French government recognition for contribution to the arts.
Co-founds Maison Francis Kurkdjian
Partners with Marc Chaya to launch his eponymous house.
Baccarat Rouge 540 launches
Creates what will become a defining fragrance of the 2020s.
Houses Shaped
Brands Francis has created for
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