Pink, perfume and power

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-10-05T11:32:42.019Z • Permanent link

Recent discoveries at Copenhagen's Glyptotek museum have shed new light on the vibrant world of ancient Roman fashion, revealing the intricate ways in which clothes, jewellery, hairstyles, and perfume were used to convey identity, wealth, and power. At the forefront of this new understanding is Dr. Sofie Birk, curator of the exhibition, who notes that "Roman fashion was not just about aesthetics, but about social status and cultural expression." This exhibition is the culmination of years of research, drawing on a vast array of data points, including archaeological finds, literary texts, and historical records. By examining the intersection of fashion, politics, and identity, Dr. Birk and her team aim to challenge prevailing narratives about ancient Roman society.

Among the most striking aspects of the exhibition is the display of intricate mosaics and frescoes, which provide a glimpse into the daily lives of Roman citizens. For instance, a stunning mosaic from the city of Pompeii depicts a group of women adorning themselves with elaborate hairstyles and jewellery, while a nearby fresco shows a wealthy merchant displaying his latest acquisition: a rare, exotic perfume. These visual records are complemented by a wealth of textual evidence, including the writings of ancient Roman authors like Pliny the Elder, who documented the latest trends and fashions in his encyclopedic work, "Naturalis Historia." By weaving together these disparate sources, Dr. Birk's team has created a rich tapestry of understanding that sheds new light on the complexities of ancient Roman culture.

The exhibition is also notable for its focus on the intersection of fashion and power. By examining the ways in which Roman elites used fashion to signal their status and influence, Dr. Birk's team has uncovered a complex web of alliances and rivalries that shaped the course of ancient Roman history. For example, the display of rare and exotic perfumes was a key aspect of Roman diplomacy, with leaders using these luxury goods to forge alliances and secure trade agreements. By exploring the ways in which fashion was used to exert power and influence, the exhibition offers a fresh perspective on the intricacies of ancient Roman politics.

The exhibition's focus on the intersection of fashion and power has significant implications for our understanding of the Data Sources domain. For instance, the display of intricate mosaics and frescoes has shed new light on the role of visual culture in shaping Roman identity and social status. This, in turn, has important implications for our understanding of the ways in which visual data is used in modern marketing and branding efforts. Companies like Nike and Louis Vuitton have long recognized the power of visual imagery in shaping consumer perceptions, and the exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into the ways in which this strategy was employed in ancient Rome.

Furthermore, the exhibition's emphasis on the intersection of fashion and power has significant implications for our understanding of the ways in which data is used to inform policy decisions. In the context of global trade and diplomacy, the display of rare and exotic perfumes offers a poignant reminder of the ways in which luxury goods can be used as a tool of cultural diplomacy. By examining the ways in which fashion and power intersect, researchers and policymakers can gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play in global markets.

The exhibition's focus on the intersection of fashion and power is part of a larger pattern that has been unfolding in the Data Sources domain over the past decade. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of visual culture in shaping social identity and social status. This has been driven in part by the rise of social media, which has created new platforms for visual self-expression and identity formation. At the same time, there has been a growing interest in the ways in which data is used to inform policy decisions, particularly in the context of global trade and diplomacy.