PHOTO: Perfume That Survived the Plague

The fascinating exhibit called `Treasures of the Black Death´ reveals jewellery from the 14th century, and a middle ages cosmetic set.

A fascinating exhibit of gold and silver jewellery from France and Germany from the middle ages starts tomorrow in London.

Found after 650 years

The valuable jewellery comes from the 14^th century, and it is believed that the Jews buried it before they left their homes, fleeing from the plague.

Jewellery and coins were found in Colmar in France in the mid 19^th century, and in Germany’s Erfurt in 1998. After the end of this exhibit, they will be exhibited in the city synagogue.

Wedding rings, engagement gifts and silverware reveal the traditions of the time, and the atmosphere in the society.

Perfume survives plague

Recently scientists have started a unique experiment in the perfume institute at L’Oreal. They tried to analyse the ingredients of a perfume that survived the deadly disease that reduced Europe’s population by one third.

Even though the sample was too small for a quality analysis of ingredients, they revealed cotton fibres for which it is fascinating to know that they travelled from Egypt or other parts of the east to a small city in Germany. Scientists are inclined to believe that the old perfume was made from roses or jasmine.

The small bottle of perfume is part of a cosmetic set from the middle ages, together with ear buds (sticks) and tweezers.

At the end of 1347, twelve ships from Constantinople sailed to Sicily. They were full of luxury items, and the ships brought the plague that spread in all directions, and was unstoppable. The stories passed down over generations say that the infections and death  spread so fast that there were not enough people alive to bury all of the dead.

The exhibit lasts until the start of May.

Take a look at the photo gallery: Treasures of the Black Death in London.