This article aims to describe the conditions for the emergence of the paradigm of supramolecular chemistry and a research speciality at the University of Strasbourg (France), where Jean-Marie Lehn spent his whole career, going beyond the story of a single career path, however brilliant and gifted it may be. It is based on a sequential 4-steps model, as proposed by Mullins (1972). The presentation is based on a chronology combining three approaches: a scientometric characterization, also nurtured by readings (archival documents -Fonds Guy Ourisson-, Nobel lectures, scientific publications and textbooks) and interviews. As suggested by Christian Jacob, this paper aims to build a characterization of knowledge crossing the two perspectives of cognitive contents and social embeddedness of scientists (Jacob, 2007). Based on a survey conducted in 2011, the author lists a number of social processes that led to the emergence of this specialty at the University of Strasbourg. She observes the legacy of this field of knowledge using an organizational study of the chemistry department as it currently exists.