French-Armenian master perfumer Francis Kurkdjian, Creative Director of Dior Parfums and founder of Maison Francis Kurkdjian, has announced that he has been named a Knight of the Legion of Honor, France's highest national distinction.
Kurkdjian shared the news on Instagram, saying he received the honor "with immense gratitude."
"I accept this distinction as a tremendous honor and share it with everyone who has accompanied me throughout my journey," he wrote.
The most moving part of his message was dedicated to his family. Kurkdjian paid tribute to his grandparents, who survived the Armenian Genocide and found refuge in France.
"Today, my thoughts are filled with emotion as I remember my grandparents, survivors of the Armenian Genocide who became refugees in France. Their courage, their faith in their adopted homeland, and the values they passed on to me give this distinction an even deeper meaning," he wrote.
Kurkdjian also said he views the award as recognition of the work carried out by the two foundations he established. One is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of perfumery, while the other supports initiatives that promote greater access to culture and foster inclusion.
The Legion of Honor marks another milestone in Kurkdjian's distinguished career. In 2009, he was appointed a Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters, but the Legion of Honor, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, is France's highest civilian distinction, awarded for exceptional service to the nation.
Today, Francis Kurkdjian is widely regarded as one of the world's most influential contemporary perfumers. In addition to founding Maison Francis Kurkdjian, he has served as Creative Director of Dior Parfums since 2021, creating fragrances for one of the world's most prestigious fashion houses.
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