Editor’s Word: The Art of Giving

As the festive season approaches, our hearts naturally gravitate towards the timeless tradition of gift-giving. This meaningful ritual isn’t just about the tangible items wrapped in shimmering paper, but also about the love and thought embedded in each gift, deepening our connections.

I vividly recall the pure excitement of my childhood holidays—those thrilling early mornings of unwrapping gifts. Each one held the promise of a long-anticipated object, of new memories to forge. Now, my greatest joy comes from seeing the sparkle in the eyes of loved ones as they unveil their surprise gifts—each one weaving an ethereal thread into the fabric of our shared bonds and memories.

In keeping with the tradition at Magnifissance, our editorial team has thoughtfully curated a gift guide for this Holiday Edition. Whether you’re shopping for someone with a refined taste, an adventurous spirit, or a poetic soul, our guide aims to reveal a “hidden gem” for that important person in your life. In particular, for those seeking a touch of elegance this season, our exclusive Oriental Glamour photo shoot features Dior makeup with a blend of retro charm and contemporary allure.

Gifts carrying generational legacies, elevated with a personal touch, and made relevant with a modern design are always heartfelt choices. In this edition, you can immerse yourself in the history and craftsmanship of a special edition of Fendi’s iconic Baguette handbag, each meticulously handcrafted by master artisans from one of China’s oldest indigenous tribes using time-honoured techniques.

We also invite you to marvel at the artistry of Shioyasu Urushi Studio, where centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship turns everyday items into masterpieces. Here, each piece of lacquerware is as much an artistic triumph as it’s a symbol of genuine appreciation and gratitude.

For art enthusiasts, a thoughtfully selected painting serves as an eloquent channel to express the most precious blessings and is one that resonates powerfully with the recipient. Each artwork is like a living entity, requiring no embellishments but stirring genuine appreciation. Whether you’re drawn to artist Sha Ching-Hwa’s mythical boulders with their time-worn crevices and eternal lotuses, moved by Chen Shih-Hang’s evocative inks, or enamoured of Lan Chu-Yueh’s meticulously crafted scenes set against an antique bronze patina, these timeless visuals invite continuous contemplation, dialogue, and a thorough enjoyment of beauty.

In a world brimming with countless options, selecting the perfect gift can be overwhelming. However, the essence of giving is simple, with the magic residing in the genuine care behind one’s choice. As author Peg Bracken aptly said, “Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.” Ultimately, it’s the time spent, the consideration given, and the love shared that matter most.

We wish you a season of love, warmth, and cherished memories. Happy Holidays!