French-Armenian master perfumer Francis Kurkdjian has been named a Knight of the Legion of Honor, France’s highest national distinction, in recognition of his contributions to the world of perfumery, Le Figaro reported.
The distinction forms part of France’s 2026 civilian honors list, which recognizes 619 individuals for their contributions to culture, science, healthcare, business, sports and public service. The decrees were signed by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Kurkdjian, the founder of Maison Francis Kurkdjian and Creative Director of Dior Parfums, was honored alongside writer Philippe Besson, actresses Rachida Brakni and Clémentine Célarié, filmmakers Xavier Giannoli and Rebecca Zlotowski, artist Eva Jospin, fashion designer Paloma Picasso and actress Natalie Portman.
This year’s promotion includes 518 Knights, 79 Officers, 16 Commanders, 4 Grand Officers and 2 Grand Cross recipients. Among the senior appointments, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde was elevated to Grand Officer, while Nobel Prize-winning physicist Serge Haroche and historian Michelle Perrot received the Grand Cross.
Reacting to the announcement, Kurkdjian said he accepted the distinction with humility and dedicated it to everyone who had supported him throughout his career.
“I receive this honor with great humility and share it with everyone who has accompanied me throughout the years,” he wrote.
Kurkdjian also paid tribute to his grandparents, survivors of the Armenian Genocide who rebuilt their lives in France.
“Today, my thoughts turn with deep emotion to my grandparents, who survived the Armenian Genocide and became refugees in France. Their courage, their faith in their new homeland, and the values they passed on to me give this distinction its deepest meaning,” he wrote.
