Durrah issue 26

volume 07 Issue 02 WINTER 2014

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OMEGA Boutiques: Moda Mall (Sheraton Complex) Tel: 17537753 Bahrain City Centre Tel: 17100135

GEORGE CLOONEY’S CHOICE.

THERE ARE EXCEPTIONS TO EVERY RULE.

ROYAL OAK DIAMOND SET IN PINK GOLD.

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Contents Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Features Editor Laura Templeton Editorial Assistant Ahmed Khunji Contributor Amal Al-Sorany Art Art Director Geir C. Erdal Marketing and Sales Media Manager Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Thomas Kuttiyil IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi Published by

Volume 07 Issue 02 Winter 2014 014 First Impression Word from Durrah’s Editor-in-Chief

016 A Royal Welcome Return of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa

024 Spirit of Venice Venetian jewellers Nardi speak to Durrah

030 A Century of Talent 100 years of Buccellati jewellery

036 The Perfect Partnership Chopard is the Official Timing Partner for Porsche

040 Ocean Commitment The Blancpain Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback

042 Time for Excellence Luxury timepieces for men

048 Unveiling an Icon New watches from Panerai

052 Contemporary Femininity Luxury timepieces for women

058 Kingdom of the Shaik The mystical world of Designer Shaik

064 Scent of Luxury A collection of the finest fragrances

068 A Drop of Sunshine The Midnight Flower Collection from Amouage

070 Modern Heritage UAE fashion label FEATHERS

072 A Sacred Treasure The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto

078 Still Sparkling Glasswork from Seguso

084 Artistic Fusion Interview with Marrakech artist Yahya

PO Box 10013, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77022222 F. +973 77022221

090 A Classic Event Mdina Grand Prix 2014

volume 07 Issue 02 WINTER 2014

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094 Craftsmanship to Perfection Hunting weapons by Johann Fanzoj

100 100 Years of Maserati Durrah test-drives the new range from Maserati

106 The Art of Arabic Calligraphy Artists Ammar Al-Mahmood and Yousif Ibrahim

112 Appreciating Beauty Moroccan artist Abdel Basit Ben Dahman

118 Brilliant Boutiques The latest luxury shopping destinations

132 Mediterranean Magic

Cover Image THE ASTRO DUO TIMEPIECE Designer Shaik launches the first luxury watch from Arabia

Discovering The Maltese Islands

136 Opulent Escapes The best luxury hotel getaways

146 Paradise Palace The Royal Mansour Marrakech

152 Invigorate the Senses Five star spas to recuperate and relax

158 Flavour Indulgence Fine dining across the world

168 Gourmet Gathering

DURRAH is a quarterly premium lifestyle magazine published by Miracle Publishing. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. No part of this publication or any other part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. While every effort has been made towards factual correctness, the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors of omission or statements made within the publication. The publisher also rejects any claims arising from any action, which a company or individual may take upon the basis of content contained therein. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Recipes from La Vinoteca Barcelona

178 No Compromises The new 650S from McLaren Automotive

182 Substance and Style Latest models from Bentley and Infiniti

188 My Wish List

ISSN 2210-1322

The latest and most exclusive luxury items

194 Publishers on Piccadilly Assouline opens their new maison

198 Final Pearl Festival of Bahrain Noor El Ain

www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh T. +973 77022222

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Welcome

First Impression A word from the editor-in-chief

D

ecember is always an exciting time in Bahrain and this year is no exception. We open this issue celebrating the return of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, who recently made a safe return to the Kingdom after undergoing successful medical tests abroad.

His Royal Highness was greeted by crowds of citizens with a warm welcome and celebration – a testament to the admiration and respect felt by all for the national leader.

This winter edition of Durrah is made even more special, as we proudly pay tribute to Arabic culture, art, fashion and more, with a range of articles that focus on our rich regional heritage.

We start with a look at The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto. His Highness the Aga Khan is dedicated to showcasing contributions that Muslim civilizations have made to the world, and with the Museum he has certainly achieved that goal. The incredible and newly opened landmark presents a collection of artistic,

intellectual and scientific objects from Muslim culture, which promotes understanding and respect among the world’s cultures.

More local talent included in this issue comes from Omani luxury perfume house Amouage, and Bahraini lifestyle brand Designer Shaik. Art is not forgotten, as we interview Arabic calligraphy artists Ammar AlMahmood from Bahrain and Yousif Ibrahim from Saudi Arabia, who draw upon the rich cultural traditions of their Arab descent.

We explore the best Morocco has to offer, with a insider glimpse at the stunning Royal Mansour Marrakech, born from the vision of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI. We also interview Moroccan based artist Yahya, whose work has been commissioned for the prestigious hotel. Yahya’s work is characterized by a harmonious fusion of eastern elegance and western minimalism…we are sure you’ll be impressed!

Moroccan artist Abdel Basit Ben Dahman also chats with Durrah about his fascinating artistic journey, and

the inspiration he gains from his city Tangiers.

As you can see, there’s a lot to indulge in this issue, with a few more surprises as you turn the pages. Durrah wishes you a safe and happy National Day and end of year celebration, and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

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Up Close and Personal

A Royal Welcome Festivities and joy prevailed in the Kingdom of Bahrain to mark the return of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, on November 20. His Royal Highness was welcomed upon arrival by crowds of citizens showcasing their happiness and joy over his safe return to the Kingdom, following the successful medical tests he had undergone recently.

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Up Close and Personal

01 Fireworks over Manama 02 HM King Hamad bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and HRH Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa

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is Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa returned safely home to the Kingdom of Bahrain on November 20, and was greeted by all with a warm welcome.

His Royal Highness was congratulated by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who His Royal Highness expressed deep pride, appreciation and thanks to, for his noble feelings and keen assurance while abroad.

News of the Premier’s much-awaited comeback unleashed a wave of happiness amongst Bahraini citizens, whose festivities were a token of gratitude to the beloved iconic national leader. Thousands of individuals from all walks of life accorded a historic welcome to His Royal Highness, who enjoys a distinguished status in the hearts of all the Kingdom’s people.

The Premier greeted the citizens, from all social segments, who rallied to salute him on his safe return, noting that their joy and warm welcome reflect the outstanding relations between the leadership and the people in Bahrain. His Royal Highness stressed that the feelings showcased by the huge crowds of citizens prove the existing cohesion and solidarity among Bahrainis.

The Premier expressed heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the citizens for their cordial feelings towards him.

In a statement, His Royal Highness said, “Today, we are resolved, more than ever, to carry on the nationbuilding march steadily, under the leadership of His Majesty the King, in order to achieve more progress and development in various fields to meet the aspirations of our dear people.”

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Up Close and Personal

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His Royal Highness urged expediting efforts to strengthen cooperation among Arab countries in order to be able to counter attempts to subvert regional security and stability.

He pointed out that the patriotic feelings and national cohesion will consolidate the requirements of the new phase of national action and ensure its success.

GCC and Arab leaders also greeted His Royal Highness on the special occasion, following the successful medical tests he underwent while away. This came at the Gudaibiya Palace, as the Premiere received a delegation of ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions of GCC and Arab countries to Bahrain, led by the Kuwaiti Ambassador and Dean of Diplomatic Corps Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al Sabah.

Saudi Ambassador Abdulla bin Abdul Malik Al-Shaikh delivered a statement on behalf of the delegation, in which he congratulated HRH Premier on his safe return. He also congratulated him on the strong emotions expressed by the crowds of citizens when they welcomed him back, which, he said, proves the Bahraini people’s love and loyalty for His Royal Highness, and the existing cohesion between the leadership and people in Bahrain.

He asserted that the Premier’s return on the eve of the parliamentary and municipal elections had filled the hearts of the Bahraini citizens with utmost joy and happiness and increased their optimism, praying Allah Almighty to protect the Kingdom of Bahrain and the

03 HRH Prime Minister Prince leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Khalifa bin Salman Al His Royal Highness expressed profound thanks Khalifa waving to the crowds and appreciation to the GCC ambassadors for their noble feelings, and asked them to convey his sincere 04-05 Bahraini citizens hold posters of the Prime thanks and greetings to GCC leaders and heads of Minister to greet HRH governments.

His Royal Highness also reviewed with the ambassadors the situation in the Arab World, noting that Arab countries should “put aside” and overcome their differences, and focus their efforts on the Palestinian issue, which is Arabs’ major cause.

His Royal Highness expressed optimism of the “new awakening”, inaugurated by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdulla bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, through reaching along with other GCC leaders, the “Riyadh Supplementary Agreement”, which he said will usher in a new phase of GCC and Arab unity.

His Royal Highness urged expediting efforts to strengthen cooperation among Arab countries in order to be able to counter attempts to subvert regional security and stability. His Royal Highness also called for the need to consolidate stability across the Arab World, stressing that the region “has suffered from instability for long, and can no longer withstand further violence.”

The business community likewise rallied with

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Up Close and Personal

06 Part of the festivities and celebrations in HRH honour 07 The firework displays celebrating the occasion

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welcome for the Premier’s return, wishing Bahrain further development and progress.

The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) chairman Khalid Almoayed congratulated the Premier on returning after undergoing successful medical check-ups. In a statement on behalf of BCCI board members and the whole business community, he extended congratulations to the wise leadership on the Premier’s safe return. He also prayed to Allah Almighty to bless the Premier with lasting health so as to continue the march in the prosperous era of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Almoayed paid tribute to the Premier, nation-builder and architect of Bahrain’s development and prosperity, stating, “His Royal Highness the Premier is the symbol of Bahrain’s progress and the man who dedicated his life to build Bahrain and engineer its economic development.”

Acknowledging the Premier’s multi-faceted patriotic roles over decades, Khalid also credited the Premier for transforming Bahrain into a model of development and prosperity, thus earning recognition. “The wise leadership’s sound policies have put Bahrain on the list of developed countries,” he said, hailing the Premier’s unrelenting efforts to ensure decent living standards for citizens.

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Jewellery

Spirit of Venice G

In a world of standardized big-name luxury, Nardi is an anomaly. The traditionally run family business has been making exclusive jewellery since the late 1920s, and today remains an undiluted expression of an aesthetic that is uniquely and proudly Venetian. The company’s love for precious gems and passion for the art of goldsmith work can be seen in each piece, and the Nardi collections perfectly reflect the charm and elegance the city is so famous for. Today the business is in the hands of grandson Alberto Nardi, who speaks with Durrah about his family’s legacy.

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iulio Nardi was an artist, craftsman, entrepreneur, businessman and, above all, an expert in gems and precious stones. He was born in Florence but moved to Venice in the 1920s where he opened his first jewellery in the world famous Piazza San Marco.

Giulio began by working with silver and crystal, but soon developed a passion for creating jewellery and began designing and making highly crafted pieces in his workshop behind the Piazza. Today, Nardi jewellery is still made in this very same workshop.

Giulio Nardi was inspired in his work by his intense love for Venice, and it meant a lot to him that through his creations he was able to bring the city of water and light to the world.

Nardi soon gained recognition as a first class jeweller thanks to the artisan techniques he employed.

These techniques were inspired by the work of 18th century Venetian goldsmiths as well as Nardi’s neverending search for beauty, his artistic flair and his use of exquisite raw materials.

A combination of artistic genius and a love of the exotic led Nardi to reinterpret one of the best-loved and most famous Venetian icons: the Moretto. With its gem

encrusted turban, the re-working of this iconic piece made the Nardi brand world famous.

Venetian high society loved and valued Nardi jewellery and the brand soon also gained international fame in the post-war period. During the years when the Dolce Vita was at its peak, Venice became the place to see and be seen for the international jet setter. Nardi accessories drew the attention of celebrities from the world of culture, sport and show business, and were worn by the likes of Liz Taylor, Grace Kelly, Ernest Hemingway, Arthur Rubinstein, and Princess Paola of Liège.

Already a must for jewellery lovers in Venice, Nardi is now established as one of the most well-known jewellery brands in the world, with celebrity clients from the world of politics, culture, sport and show business. What makes the jewels so special is the way they embody the spirit of Venice and continue to be as famous as ever for its originality and the truly Venetian style, which distinguishes it from other brands. Nardi jewels can be either worn or collected and are often hand crafted or custom-made for individual clients. www.nardi-venezia.com

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Jewellery 01 18kt yellow gold Moretto ring, set with diamonds. Head in ebony wood 02 18kt yellow gold Moretto brooch-pendant, ‘Tree of Life’ – rèduit. Set with diamonds and coloured sapphires 03 Box with four Nardi Estate Moretto brooch-pendants.

From ‘50s/’60s 04 Alberto Nardi

A combination of artistic genius and a love of the exotic led Nardi to reinterpret one of the best-loved and most famous Venetian icons: the Moretto.

Interview with Alberto Nardi 03

How would you define Venetian style?

The Venetian style is as unique and original as the city itself. During the course of time it shaped every artistic movement and adapted them to its atmosphere and colours. The artists always tried to gather the fragile and still wonderful balance of this place, built between sea and dry land.

In particular the Venetian style rotates around the importance of colours, which becomes theme in itself and ties together the wide art history (think of the paintings of the Reinassance) and the jewellery.

Nardi is a traditional family run business, which you are currently continuing. Can you describe your role and responsibilities?

With a little bit of pride, I often say that Nardi represents one of the few families of jewellers that still remain in Italy. I try, to the best of my ability, to carry on and have this history and tradition (started more than eighty years ago by my grandfather Giulio and maintained by my father Sergio) continuing.

My role is to update this reality to the needs of our times, to organize it in accordance with the challenges of a globalized world. The comparison is difficult and multiple, since our competitors are multinational companies and they have dimensions and visibility which are unreachable for us. What fascinates me is feeling different, being aware of offering our customers a product that is unique, not standardized and never ordinary. The commitment, in this sense, is big because my view cannot only be commercial but is also and mostly emotional and sentimental.

How does Nardi jewellery maintain the balance between heritage and innovation?

The word tradition comes from the Latin verb “trahere”, which means to carry forward. My opinion is that the heritage of the Nardi jewels has to be continued and updated to meet the needs of the modern taste.

Our jewellery is certainly historical, but never the less has not to be seen or understood as a ‘museum’. It must be updated with the present.

As far as our production is concerned, we maintain a classical line, but what fascinates me the most is the aesthetic research, which starts from the typical elements of the history of Venice, which is decontextualized and becomes a contemporary jewel.

What are some of your favourite moments in the brand’s history?

I always say that the life of a man, as the one of a company, is made of many moments or even days, which are normal or ordinary, but that deposit like a drop those ideas or strategies which turn out to be winning.

Apart from this general concept, it is evident that the moments I remember with the most pleasure are linked to the visits of prestigious customers. Understanding that your work is appreciated by people who yearn for the best the world can offer is a confirmation you are on the correct path. Sometimes I stop and browse the old guest books of my grandfather or my father, and it still moves me finding signatures of people who made the history of the last one hundred years. The awareness, in our small way, to be part of this history is for me reason of pride and hope in the difficult moments.

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05 18kt yellow gold and silver Moretto ‘Othello’ broochpendant with chrysoberyl cat’s eye and fancy colour and cut diamonds 06 18kt yellow gold ‘Mosaic’ ring with peridotes and yellow tourmalines 07 18kt red gold Moretto ‘View of Venice” open-able broochpendant with rubies and inner view of Venetian island in gold enamel

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Jewellery 08 18kt white gold Moretto ‘Tree of life’ with head in ebony wood 09 18kt yellow ring with Burma star blue sapphire ct. 28,52 with emeralds and diamonds 10 View of the historical shop in Venice, Piazza San Marco 11 One of the first Moretto brooches ever realized in the late ‘30s. It is in 18kt yellow gold with rubies, diamonds and still in its original box

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Nardi’s ‘Moretto’ jewellery has become symbolic of the brand. Can you tell us a bit more about this?

The ‘Moretto’, over the years, has become our more symbolic and famous jewel. Its origin is antique and linked to the artistic movement of the Exoticism or “Turquerie” which, together with Orientalism, developed in Europe at the end of the XVIII century. Its peculiar shape represents the idealization of the eastern world, the dream of far-away countries full of mystery and charm. The history of Venice is heavily bonded, both commercially and culturally, with Middle and Far East.

That is also testified by the many portrayals in which the Venetians are dressed the “Turkish” way.

Nardi’s Moretto is not an object for everybody, but only for those who understands its unique and artistic beauty and want to own a symbol full of history and optimism.

Where do you source the stones and gems for your pieces?

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Before I started working daily in the shop, I graduated at the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) as a gemologist and just after that I started travelling to countries such as Colombia, Burma and Ceylon and so on, to buy precious stones from the source. Today our supply net for stones includes the whole world and it gives me the opportunities to find not the most expensive ones but the most particular ones, which adapts to our jewels and makes them more beautiful.

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How should a customer feel when wearing a piece by Nardi?

Whoever wears a Nardi jewel must feel special and unique. Our customers know that ours is a luxury based on small numbers, on pieces done completely by hand in Italy. This way the jewel becomes one, indissoluble, with its owner, just as a tailor-made suit is.

I really hope those values of uniqueness and refinement will strongly come back into fashion. We should not be settling anymore for what we are abstractly suggested, but choosing and realizing what has value and what has not.

What inspires the Nardi brand today?

Nardi is inspired by what was already its inspiration eighty years ago: Venice, the research for beauty, the uniqueness and customer confidentiality. Values that I hope will be guiding us for many years to come.

What’s next for Nardi jewellery?

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What I wish for our future is to become, even more than today, an elegant and refined name on the international jewellery scene. The above step will be possible only when we will have a discrete and niche presence also outside our Venetian shop. That way only, we will be able to develop relations with those collectors who still do not know about us.

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Jewellery

A Century of Talent

Tradition, creativity, and excellence in handcrafting the highest quality materials: these are the values that have always been central to Buccellati. A long-established family firm, Buccellati creates Italian-designed jewellery and has preserved its stylistic identity for a century by reviving ancient goldsmith traditions in the top end of the jewellery market.

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ario Buccellati (1891-1965), the founder of the family business, did his apprenticeship at a very young age at the famous jewellers and goldsmith’s Beltrami & Besnati, where he was fascinated by all of the metals and stones and the use the craftsmen made of them. The young man dreamt of forgotten techniques that dated back to ancient Greece or the Middle Ages, or to his favourite period, the Renaissance.

In 1919, Mario opened his first jewellery store in Milan, on Largo Santa Margherita near the famous La Scala Theatre. He revived and emphasised the use of ancient tools and traditions to bring his creations into being. Though enthused by the style of ancient periods, he never sought to imitate the jewels of the Renaissance era, but rather to interpret it, by combining it with his interest and attraction for the Oriental art. Each of his

creations held a rich textural quality and resembled sumptuous fabrics, delicate damasks and Venetian laces. Age-old engraving and chiselling techniques were incorporated into a mix of precious stones and metals for an unusual yet extraordinary combination.

He had a knack for drawing and an inquisitive mind, so he quickly became one of Italy’s most highly respected jewellers and goldsmiths, and garnered a prestigious clientele. Among his clients, the famous “literary dandy”, Gabriele d’Annunzio, coined for him the name “The Prince of Goldsmiths”.

Soon he started to work for various Royal Families of Italy, Spain and Egypt, and supplied ornamental objects to The Pope and the great cardinals of Rome.

Mario Buccellati also had some very entrepreneurial skills and, considering his success at Italian level, he

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Jewellery

01 Rombi. Natural elements are stylized to become geometric shapes. The Renaissanceinspired design is obtained through a meticulous handmade pierce. White and yellow gold enhance the preciousness of this workmanship known as the ‘Stile Fiorentino’ technique.

02 Dream Bracelets. The fabric-like texture of handtooled metal offsets the sparkling gemstones and settings to exude a style that’s classic and modern at the same time. Although the bracelets look minimal, they display an unbeatably complex craftsmanship only discernable to a true expert.

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decided to spread the business. In 1925, he opened two additional stores, one in Rome and one in Florence.

In 1951, Mario decided to expand the house of Buccellati internationally and ventured into the American market: he opened his first store on 51st Street, in the heart of New York City. Just one year later in 1952, he went on with a second branch on 5th Avenue and inaugurated a seasonal shop on the famous Worth Avenue in Palm Beach.

When Mario Buccellati passed away in 1965, four out of his five sons took over the family business, and among them Gianmaria (1929) passionately learned the meticulous craftsmanship, and notably the driving force behind Buccellati, as he started to work as an apprentice with his father from his very young age, following his footsteps.

In 1966 Gianmaria took over the management of the workshops and the creative side of the company: he conceived and designed every piece coming out of his ateliers, just like they are still doing today.

He worked with his brother Luca, sharing with him the vision of creating Buccellati into a worldwide jewellery powerhouse. While Luca developed the

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In recent years Buccellati approached the world of watches, by creating men’s and ladies’ timepieces, which are a must for collectors.

business in the United States, Gianmaria managed the workshops and was responsible for the design and production of the company.

The long run had started, and Gianmaria then decided to give new impulse to the development of his company. A pioneer like his father in the US, Gianmaria was the first Italian jeweller to set up a shop in Hong Kong in 1970, followed by Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya in the next few years. The run didn’t stop, as Gianmaria decided to redevelop his business in Europe. In 1979 Buccellati became the first Italian brand to launch a boutique in the world-famous place Vendôme, where all the jewellery gothas are present.

Since then, the possibilities of expansion have considerably grown and developed, and in all these years Gianmaria has always been flanked by his son Andrea, who inherited his father’s artistic talents and who supervises all jewellery creation steps in the Milan ateliers and headquarters. Since 2013, Andrea has been President of the Buccellati Group.

In the purest Buccellati style, where all creative skills are passed down from father to son, Andrea is today supported by his daughter Lucrezia, a young woman and

mother living in New York and supplying new inspirations and trends to the brand’s creations.

In the course of decades, Buccellati widened its creativity to silver objects, most of them one-of-a-kind creations, and all marked with the typical style which is admired all over the world. In recent years Buccellati approached the world of watches, by creating men’s and ladies’ timepieces, which are a must for collectors.

The Buccellati craftsmanship and tradition can be found today in all Buccellati jewels, watches and silver pieces, all executed with top level techniques and fine hand-engravings creating a delicate and distinctive aesthetic sensibility and inspiring and elegant and delicate femininity.

Buccellati is the Italian “bottega” of Renaissance times brought into the 21st century: Mario first, then Gianmaria, and now his son Andrea with his daughter Lucrezia. Buccellati brings a touch of tradition and culture to jewellery to create a true excellence, which is now recognized and admired worldwide for its timeless beauty. www.buccellati.com

03 Macri Timepieces. The ‘rigato’ effect is obtained by handmade engraving.

The surface is wavy and embellished with brilliant-cut diamonds set in tiny starshaped rosettes. Small and shiny gold beads play with the opaque texture and the light of the diamonds.

04 Timepieces. Right: AGALMA New York, 24mm. Dial: Diamonds, Movement: Swiss quartz, Bracelet: Yellow gold with diamond. Left: ELIO Marquise Capri, 30mm. Dial: Diamonds, Movement: Swiss quartz, Bracelet: White gold with diamonds and sapphires.

05 From left to right: Patrick Normand, Mohammed Mahmood Jaffar, Luca Buccellati.

romance Let us join you on the journey of life. Celebrate life’s unforgettable moments with exquisite handcrafted bridal jewellery.

Photography: Ali Al Riffai

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Special Event

In a partnership of shared values and the constant quest for performance and excellence, Swiss luxury brand Chopard was the Official Timing Partner for Porsche Motorsports, for the 7th round of the FIA World Endurance Championship held in Bahrain this November. Perfectly in line with the spirit of the Superfast watch collection, this prestigious partnership is an extension of Chopard’s longstanding commitment to automotive sports.

The Perfect Partnership

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roudly supporting Porsche Motorsport as Official Timing Partner since the beginning of this season, Chopard has been following the teams with great expectations of victory. On November 15 at the 6 Hours of Bahrain, for the first time this year, both Porsche 919 Hybrid crews were part of the podium ceremony finishing second and third. In the LMGTE Pro class race, the two Porsche 911 RSRs ended the race in fourth and fifth positions, only narrowly missing podium placing.

The trio of Romain Dumas (France), Neel Jani (Switzerland) and Marc Lieb (Germany) finished second in round seven of the FIA World Endurance Championship held at the Bahrain National Circuit in Sakhir. Immediately behind them the sister car crossed the line. Timo Bernhard (Germany), Brendon Hartley (New Zealand) and Mark Webber (Australia) came third in the six-hour race.

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Dumas started from pole position and stayed in front until he was passed by a Toyota on lap five. He took the lead and held it until his pit stop for fuel and tyres after 30 laps. Dumas handed over to Lieb after 61 laps with the car lying in second. On lap 100 he overtook an Audi. After 123 laps Jani took over car number 14 in second position. After 154 laps, on fresher tyres, he was the faster of the two 919 Hybrids and passed the sister car for second position.

Hartley started from third on the grid, improved to second, but then dropped behind the two Toyotas.

Soon he suffered from problems with the brake temperatures. When he handed over the car to Bernhard after 48 laps, he had improved to third.

Bernhard was leading the race after lap 79. When he handed over the car to Webber after 110 laps. Webber re-fuelled and received fresh tyres after 141 laps.

Porsche team and Webber together decided to take the

risk of saving time by not changing tyres and only refuelling the car to go to the finish of the race.

Great fights for position in the beginning and strategies that produced exciting outcomes in the end were the result of the penultimate round of the world championship, along with high temperatures of over 30 degrees.

As recognition of the exclusive partnership, this year Chopard released the new “Superfast Chrono Porsche 919 edition� watch, a special edition in the Superfast collection. This model, limited to 919 pieces, is inspired by the Porsche 919 Hybrid car, and reflects the innovative spirit and common values that thrive in both companies.

Every inch as outstanding as Porsche racing cars, the models in the Superfast collection embodies a wealth of superlatives while featuring the distinctive codes of motor racing. They are also a test bench

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Special Event

for constantly pushing limits and implementing new procedures or innovative materials – exactly how Porsche sees motor racing, as a “Lab for our visions”.

The new Superfast Chrono Porsche 919 Edition is entirely in tune with this approach. This imposingly sized chronograph with its 45 mmdiameter case and flyback function beats to the pace of a mechanical Chopard 03.05-M calibre, chronometer-certified by the COSC. This ‘engine’ and its oscillating weight may be admired through a sapphire crystal engraved with the inscription “Official Timing Partner Porsche Motorsport”.

Inspired by the new Porsche 919 Hybrid, the stripes on the dial evoke the racing car’s rear diffuser.

Likewise, the “919” appearing in a red rectangle inside a 9 o’clock subdial is identical to the number of the Porsche racing cars. Finally, the rubber strap is inspired by slick tyres serving to negotiate bends at extremely high speeds.

This sophisticated and powerful new Superfast chronograph proclaims a highly exclusive nature that is a perfect match for the legendary Porsche cars, since the new Superfast Chrono Porsche 919 Edition from Chopard is produced in a strictly limited series 03

Every inch as outstanding as Porsche racing cars, the models in the Superfast collection embodies a wealth of superlatives while featuring the distinctive codes of motor racing.

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01 Superfast Chrono Porsche 919 Edition

reserved for those who are quick off the mark.

Born of a joint desire to pursue reliability and advancement, the exceptional mechanics emerging from the Porsche Motorsport and Chopard workshops have significantly influenced their respective fields and remain benchmarks for aficionados of motorsports and watchmaking.

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, co-president of Chopard states, “Porsche stands for passion and performance – values we can fully identify with. We are proud to be part of their return to the FIA World Endurance series this season.”

The paths of Porsche and Chopard also meet in the story of another legend: Jacky Ickx.

An exceptional driver who has put his name in the history books by feats achieved in several motorsport disciplines, and a longstanding Chopard ambassador, Jacky Ickx – nicknamed “Mr Le Mans” – can lay claim to six victories in this legendary case, four of which were at the wheel of Porsche!

The next round of the FIA World Endurance Championship will be held in Sao Paulo Brazil on November 30th 2014.

02 Pilot changing - Ambiance 03 Porsche 919 Hybrid leading the race 04 Calibre 03.05-M of the 919 Edition 05 Porsche label on the back of the 919 Edition 06 Pitlane ambiance

www.chopard.com

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Watches

Ocean Commitment Blancpain’s commitment to the sub-aqua world has taken on a new dimension, under the Blancpain Ocean Commitment name. In a worthy cause that calls for attention to ocean preservation and protection, Blancpain unveiled a series of limited edition diving watches. The Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback makes a charitable contribution of 1,000 Euros for each watch sold. The total funds will be added to Blancpain’s ongoing support of oceanic environmental causes and each purchaser will automatically be enrolled in Blancpain’s Ocean Commitment Circle and given special advantages.

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or over sixty years, the Blancpain story has been closely bound up with the universe of diving. On October 9, President & CEO Marc A. Hayek welcomed dignitaries, friends of the brand, press, and partners in the crusade to preserve and protect the world’s oceans as well as to increase public awareness through ocean exploration.

For the first time, the fruits of Blancpain’s multi-year financial support of oceanic environmental causes are unified under the title ‘Blancpain Ocean Commitment’.

Underscoring the importance of the occasion was Blancpain’s unveiling of the Ocean Commitment Circle concept and the first of the limited edition timepieces, the Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback, as well as a new dedicated website and a richly illustrated volume recounting the twin and related histories of Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms diving watches and underwater exploration.

Limited to 250 pieces, the Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback features Blancpain’s latest in-house movement and a special grey ceramic case with blue dial and bezel. Each purchaser will join

the Ocean Commitment Circle and contribute and reinforce Blancpain’s support for oceanic environmental causes through a donation made for each watch.

The Bathyscaphe is a legendary name at Blancpain.

Three years after the 1953 debut of the original Fifty Fathoms, Blancpain introduced the Bathyscaphe as a smaller diameter diving watch alternative adapted to daily wear. Over the years, the Bathyscaphe evolved in parallel with the Fifty Fathoms and became a part of the Fifty Fathoms legend. This patrimony is fully honoured with the debut of the Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback, as it is a fully featured underwater chronograph, which at 43 mm in diameter is smaller than the core models of the Fifty Fathoms Collection.

The Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback features Blancpain’s latest inhouse movement, the F385. The F385 is distinguished by its use of silicon for the balance wheel spiral, which provides the same degree of protection from magnetism as constructions that rely upon a soft iron

inner case. However, whereas soft iron inner cases hide the movement, the F385’s use of silicon allows both protection from magnetism and view of the movement.

The F385 also utilises a vertical clutch for the engagement of the chronograph. Blancpain has been an industry pioneer in the development and refinement of vertical clutch chronographs, which guarantee flawless starting and operation of the chronograph.

Horizontal clutch systems are prone to needle jumping upon starting and uneven movement of the chronograph seconds hand, both of which are avoided with Blancpain’s design.

Two other features of this new timepiece bring important functionality to the world of diving. Unlike most diving chronographs, which paradoxically forbid chronograph use underwater, the Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback has been equipped with sealed chronograph pushers, allowing use of the chronograph during dives to a depth of 300 meters.

Second, the chronograph itself incorporates a flyback function, where a single push of the ‘return to zero’ pusher restarts the timing for a second event. This is particularly useful for divers’ decompression stops.

Aesthetically, the Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Flyback is housed in a grey ceramic case, with a ceramic crown and ceramic chronograph pushers and a unidirectional blue ceramic rotating bezel marked with liquid metal indexes. The blue colour theme is

carried over to the dial, which offers three sub-dials for the chronograph counters and small seconds display.

On the back of the watch is the visible movement and winding rotor, the latter of which has been specially decorated bearing the logo for the Ocean Commitment.

Each Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronograph Flyback will be individually numbered and each purchaser will receive a copy of Blancpain’s collectible volume ‘Fifty Fathoms The Dive and Watch History 1953-2013’. The copy received by each purchaser will be hand numbered to correspond to the serial number of his watch.

Every client will automatically be enrolled in the Ocean Commitment Circle and receive a certificate confirming that a donation has been made for that watch. Thanks to their purchase, they become an active player in reinforcing Blancpain’s support of oceanic initiatives. Special advantages will be granted to the members of the Circle, such as close relationships with Blancpain partners, opportunities to meet them, exclusive information and news through the members area of Blancpain’s new Ocean Commitment website, private invitations to scientific expedition report presentations as well as documentary film premieres. www.blancpain-ocean-commitment.com

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Watches

Constantly striving for excellence and innovation, these luxury watch brands offer a new range of timepieces for men that have made horological history. Durrah presents the latest models crafted from years of research and expertise, which feature the highest possible precision, unique individualities and striking aesthetic characteristics.

With a firm foundation in the very best of traditional horology, the updated quality of these timepieces comes directly from the future.

Time for Excellence RM 057 Dragon-Jackie Chan, Richard Mille Luxury Swiss brand Richard Mille has released a stunning creation in collaboration with world-renowned Hong Kong actor and director Jackie Chan, in the form of a new tourbillon. The uniquely designed RM 057 draws inspiration from two of the ‘Four Supernatural Spirits’, featuring the images of both a Phoenix and Dragon hand engraved into the dial. Created from 3N rose gold, the stunning wristwatch has a movement baseplate of pure, deep Black Onyx and a dazzling golden dragon engraving and coloured scales that grips the tourbillon bridge in one of his claws. The round, engraved Jackie Chan signature set in the black Onyx baseplate side rotates once every 60 seconds in time with the tourbillon’s rotation, adding a refined visible touch to the design. The entire movement of the RM 057 Dragon-Jackie Chan follows all the philosophies of Richard Mille with its baseplate of PVD treated titanium, double winding barrels and a power reserve of 48 hours, indicated by a red line between 10 and 11 o’clock. The movement is given extra protection by a torque-limiting crown to protect the watch from possible overwinding.

The RM 057 Phoenix and Dragon is available in a strictly limited edition of 15 pieces in 18K white or red gold. www.richardmille.com

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Watches

Automotive Chronograph, Ralph Lauren For 2015, Ralph Lauren introduces the Automotive Chronograph, inspired by the instrument panel of Ralph Lauren’s legendary 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Coupe.

While all great automobiles of the 1930s made especially lavish use of exotic materials for their interiors, the 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Coupe was particularly compelling. Its dashboard, with superbly controlled visual balance, directly inspired the Automotive Chronograph. The timepiece’s curved case horns and chronograph pushers echo the graceful yet powerful lines of the automobile’s body, while the handmade wooden dial element – crafted from specially chosen loupe d’orme, or elm burl wood – reflects the interior trim of the Type 57 SC’s cockpit. In order to give the dial the same visual detail and impact as the automobile’s instrument

panel, only veneers with the right concentration of knots and grains were chosen, making each watch a unique piece.

For the movement, Ralph Lauren partnered with Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre to craft a self-winding caliber RL751A/1, which runs in 39 jewels, beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offering a 65-hour power reserve. The Côtes de Genève andperlage movement finishing is a special decoration exclusive to Ralph Lauren. The Ralph Lauren Automotive Chronograph is a superbly functional and impeccably crafted timepiece — a direct reflection of Ralph Lauren’s lifelong passion for the world of beautiful machines found both in automotive design and the tradition of fine watchmaking. www.ralphlaurenwatches.com

Bugatti Super Sport, Parmigiani Fleurier The manually wound Calibre Parmigiani 372 was designed in order to match the contours of the new Bugatti watch. On the wrist, the movement of the watch is presented at a 90° angle. The balance is entirely visible, as is the circular bridge of the power reserve, calibrated to 10 days and placed in the centre.

As striking aesthetic characteristics, the train wheels are cut in the form of car wheels and six sapphire crystals reveal the 333 components of the Bugatti Super Sport, which is water resistant to 10 metres.

The dial, made from black opaline with a gold base, a testimony to the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, has transparent sections in the centre, which allow a glimpse of the hour wheel.

The exceptionally slender profile of the Bugatti Super Sport was designed to reference the emblematic form of a Parmigiani Fleurier watch. The case of the new Bugatti’s 18 carat rose gold case is designed to reflect the tension lines of the Bugatti Veyron’s wings.

Brushed or polished, the tapered surfaces and chamfers come to life in the light, enhancing the generous volumes of the piece. The watch’s aerodynamic curves are matched with an integral Hermès strap specially created for the occasion. www.bugatti.com/en/super-sport.html

LANGE 1, A. Lange & Sรถhne Since it premiered on 24 October 1994, the LANGE 1 has epitomised the core and the identity of the reborn A. Lange & Sรถhne brand. With its asymmetric dial, three-day movement and the first outsize date in a regularly produced wristwatch, it won instant acclaim from watch enthusiasts. A unique combination of classic style elements and technical innovations, the watch with the unmistakable face represents a paragon in style-defining horological classics. Even in its twentieth year, the famous LANGE 1 watch family remains an unconditional success. Although it is still being crafted today virtually unchanged, this does not mean that nothing has changed in the LANGE 1 continuum during the past two decades. Today it consists of 15 watch models, which come in various case diameters and as manually wound or selfwinding versions. The portfolio has been enriched with additional functions such as a moon-phase display, a second time zone, or as a combination featuring a tourbillon and a perpetual calendar. Special models and limited editions rank among the coveted timepieces that regularly fetch record prices at auctions. www.alange-soehne.com

Gravity Control, Academy Christophe Colomb The new Gravity Control module developed by Academy Christophe Colomb is a truly impressive creation, evoking the feat accomplished by Austrian sportsman Felix Baumgartner. A champion of surpassing personal limits, Baumgartner is an experienced parachutist and base jumper, achieving three feats in 2012 by jumping from a stratospheric capsule. A personality echoing the enterprising spirit of Zenith, his accomplishments are expressed through an exceptional ten-piece DLC-coated platinum limited edition. Stemming from five years of intense development, the timepiece houses a movement featuring two horological feats dedicated to peerless precision: a regulating organ with a high oscillation frequency (36,000 vibrations/hour) serving to divide time into tenths of a second; and a micromechanical marvel in the shape of a patented Gravity Control gyroscopic module, which neutralises the effects of gravity on the rate of the watch. The dial illustrates Felix Baumgartner’s feat engraved on a hand-polished 18-carat gold plate and an image of the turquoise Earth occupies the greater part of the dial base, while the upper section shows the Milky Way viewed from the stratosphere and depicted in aventurine. Rarely used in the field of Fine Watchmaking, the latter material was born in the 16th century workshop of a Venetian master glassmaker. www.zenith-watches.com

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Watches

Unveiling an Icon Italian high-end watchmakers Officine Panerai are acclaimed for their unique blend of Italian design and Swiss technology. Once again the brand participated in the 11th edition of Bahrain’s Jewellery Arabia, showcasing a selection of enticing new models. Durrah speaks exclusively to Managing Director Milvin George, who gives insight into the brands philosophy, their customer base in the GCC, and what was on display this years show.

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ewellery Arabia is the region’s most prestigious watches & jewellery exhibition, which took place in Manama from the 18th to the 22nd of November 2014 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. The event is where the biggest international names in this industry come together to demonstrate their expertise, under the patronage of his Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

In collaboration with long-term partner Asia Jewellers, this year Officine Panerai once again appealed to the region’s biggest connoisseurs by exhibiting a selection of extraordinary timepieces reflecting the brand’s heritage and watchmaking know-how.

The event represented the first opportunity for highend watches connoisseurs to see some of the models recently launched by Panerai at the Watches & Wonders fair in Hong Kong, such as the new Radiomir 1940 3 Days Automatic in steel or red gold, with their simple yet extremely sophisticated design and the new P.4000

automatic movement with off-centre micro rotor.

The pieces selected for this years exhibition also included the Luminor Marina and the Radiomir 10 Days GMT, two watches made in limited editions of 50 and 10 units each respectively and dedicated to Manama, the capital of Bahrain. The two watches have the iconic World Trade Centre towers engraved on the back of the steel case and are both supplied with a personalised leather strap and large-size polished steel buckle.

Furthermore, Officine Panerai also displayed the Lo Scienzato - Luminor 1950 Tourbillon GMT Ceramica, a watch of astonishing technical content and striking finishing, which demonstrates the depth of the technical horological knowledge of the Panerai Manufacture in Neuchâtel.

The exciting new watches are sold exclusively at the new Panerai boutique Located at Moda Mall in Manama, Bahrain. www.panerai.com

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Watches 01 Mechanics on the back of the Radiomir 1940 3 Days Automatic 02 The Lo Scienzato – Luminor 1950 Tourbillon GMT Ceramica 03 Back of the Luminor Marina 44mm featuring the Bahrain World Trade Centre 04 Front view of the special edition Luminor Marina 44mm

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Interview with Milvin George, Managing Director of Officine Panerai What brand philosophy does Panerai follow?

Basically the philosophy of the brand is to continue to build awareness and offer our customers an exclusive experience. In terms of our brand, we are a high-end technical sports brand and we work closely with our customers. We opened our manufacture in 2005 so we make everything in house, such as the movement and so on. We work and experiment with many different materials, which we then showcase to our customers. We have the usual steel, titanium, platinum and gold in different colours, and we’ve been working a lot with things like ceramic and bronze – which is difficult to work with, but we’ve had a lot of success with it. However obviously the main idea for us is that the watch keeps its functionality – the main idea is to see the time, even though the idea of an oversized watch is embedded into the identity of our brand.

How do you maintain a sense of exclusivity?

From the beginning, we were a very niche brand that made a limited number of watches and it was very exclusive for the time. Now today we continue this tradition with special editions such as the timepiece which is a tribute to Bahrain, which we launched as we now have a boutique in Moda Mall.

As for exclusivity, all our watches are produced in a limited number and we have more demand than supply, which keeps it special. We have an exclusive network of shops, about 66 boutiques around the world. In the region we have 13 that we take care of. Of course with exclusivity you also need to be in control of the full experience, so the customer will excellent service and most of the full collection on display in each boutique.

What sets Panerai apart from other luxury watch brands?

We are an Italian company that is Swiss made, so we have the best of both worlds, which gives us unique positioning. Our manufacture is in Switzerland and our head office is in Milan and we have another office in Geneva. In terms of bringing both worlds together, Italy is more about design and style and the Swiss technology is precise for technology. We produce watches in limited numbers and also in limited editions. For example for the World Trade Centre in Bahrain we only produced 50 as it was a limited edition, and that was a one off.

But for the limited production we make the same watch every year in a certain amount, and once that is sold we will stop producing it. Each watch comes with its own letter to say the year of production it was made, meaning our collectors know the year and quantity, which keeps the value of the watch.

What has your experience in the GCC market been like?

It’s been very dynamic. I’ve been in the market for 16 years now and I can tell you it’s been a revolution in the market; coming from small markets and then evolving with the boom in real estate and all the big malls coming, it really gave the retail sector a boost.

As you know we can’t do anything if we don’t have the right environment, so the distribution in the market has grown greatly with all these big malls opening. In terms of customer, the GCC customer is well travelled, understands watches, and considers a watch an important expression or accessory. We are a masculine

brand and men here love to wear watches, cufflinks or have a pen.

Do you have special products that you only distribute for your Middle Eastern customer base?

Yes, for example the Bahrain Special Edition mentioned previously. These are things that are related to special events or projects we have in the area. As well as the Bahrain World Trade Centre, we did a Burj Khalifa for Dubai, a skyline for Abu Dhabi, the Zubarah Fort for Qatar, the flag of Lebanon and many others; so selecting special places or areas and recreating them.

What was the experience for Panerai like at this year’s Jewellery Arabia Exhibition?

It was an opportunity for us to meet our collectors and Panerai addicts; we have people that wait for us every year. Obviously we come with a lot of novelties that we launched at the beginning of the year in Geneva, and we have the chance to show them and orders can be placed with our dealers at Asia Jewellers.

It takes 6 to 8 months to fully launch, so actually Jewellery Arabia comes at the perfect time for our products, and we made use of it well.

What are your hopes for the future of Panerai?

The hope is to maintain the exclusivity of the brand, to be able to meet and exceed expectations of our customers in terms of products, service, distribution, communication, and to always offer a superb experience.

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Watches

Grace meets substance in this elegant assortment of modern timepieces for women. Timeless design and first-class handiwork characterise the quality of these select pieces, each one a symbol of authenticity. Durrah offers the best selection from the world’s leading brands, proving that functionality can still be fashionable.

Contemporary Femininity V-Signature Christmas Edition, Versace With style that represents strong femininity, the V-Signature collection by Versace is joined with two new special editions just in time for Christmas. The new versions feature colour contrasts and precious materials that offer a glamorous take on the festive atmosphere.

The IP rose gold case is illuminated by the iridescent gleam of 212 diamonds (over one and a half carats in all), set on the big lugs decorated with Versace’s signature Greek key. The dial comes in black or red, with a full diamond pavé in the centre of .56ct, making it a true ‘jewellery timepiece’. The sophisticated double detachable wrist strap is made from a fine, soft Elaphe snakeskin and is secured with a butterfly buckle.

The V-Signature Christmas Edition is available in two limited editions: the “all-black” version available in 30 pieces and the “all red” model in only 20 pieces. www.versace.com

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Watches

Portofino Midsize Automatic Moon Phase, IWC For the Portofino Midsize Automatic Moon Phase, IWC’s watch designers chose flawless, gently shimmering mother-of-pearl in white and black. The subtle, smooth lustre of the mother-of-pearl gives the dials a magnificent sense of depth, bringing them to life. A bezel set with 66 diamonds complements each piece with a fitting sparkle. The watches are sold with an elegant Santoni alligator leather strap. The dial of the sumptuous white gold model is coated with several layers of jet-black lacquer, which provide a striking backdrop to the pure white diamonds. For the first time ever, Schaffhausen’s watch designers have set the complete moon phase display against a star-studded night sky, making the moon and stars appear to float in infinite space. The watch is brought to sparkling life by the diamond set in both the inner circle of the dial and the baton-style indices, as well as by the case, which is encrusted with 90 precious stones. www.iwc.com

For the first time ever, Schaffhausen’s watch designers have set the complete moon phase display against a star-studded night sky, making the moon and stars appear to float in infinite space.

Diva Emeralds High Jewellery watch, Bulgari A true masterpiece of jewellery craftsmanship, the Diva Emeralds High Jewellery watch proclaims its roots in the founding values of the House of Bulgari, combining design, refined gemstones and unconventional shapes. The design takes inspiration from an ancient form of beauty – the intricate patterns of Roman mosaics, which refer to 2700 years of roman history and heritage. They are a daily source of inspiration for Bulgari. The timepiece won the ‘Jewellery Watch’ Award at the 14th edition of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.

The timepiece has an 18ct white gold case and bracelet set with 42 baguette-cut, 8 round-cut and 394 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling approximately 10.29 carats. The 250 baguette-cut and 8 round-cut emeralds are approximately 10.52 carats and the Swiss high-precision quartz movement was customised specially for Bulgari. www.bulgari.com

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Watches

Starside Magic Second, Maurice Lacroix The Starside Magic Second Automatic movement from Maurice Lacroix features a breath-taking 33mm stainless steel case with diamond set bezel that has been fully polished. The case is available in white mother of pearl with engraved sunray or a guillochĂŠ pattern. The domed sapphire crystal has an antireflective coating that is also water resistant to 50m.

The white mother of pearl dial of the timepiece is painstakingly finished and customized in accordance with the collection design. Pink gold plated hands display the time, with the hours and minutes hand radius cut, and the seconds hand stamped and polished. The strap is available in either a black satin strap or a metal bracelet with folding clasp. All parts are certified by the Maurice Lacroix master watchmakers and have therefore passed all strict quality control tests. www.mauricelacroix.com

Lady Diver, Ulysse Nardin A picture of elegance in sport, appearing exquisite in any situation the Lady Diver leaves nothing to be desired.

A fine jewellery watch and reliable diving instrument, the Lady Diver is self-winding with the UN-815 calibre steering the hours, minutes and seconds, as well as the date at the 6 o’clock position. She has a power reserve of 42 hours and is water resistant to 100 meters.

The Lady Diver is offered in 18-karat gold and accompanied by a durable rubber strap ideal for endless activity.

Inspired by all things marine, Ulysse Nardin’s journey in haute horology began on the sea.

Decade after decade, the manufacturer shares its passion for the ocean through its timepieces, and the iconic Lady Diver is no exception, boasting a nautical past paired with modern femininity. www.ulysse-nardin.com

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Special Feature

Mystical Arabia lives on in everyone’s imagination as a colourful, mysterious place of perfumes, of arabesques woven in sumptuous silks, of magic and delight. At Designer Shaik, the regal Shaik of Arabia inhabits a world where adventure and mystery still exist, where love and luxury combine. The timeless qualities of opulence and fantasy form an emotional and intellectual bridge, and the romantic vision of the East is married with the style and practicality of the West. A beautiful fusion is achieved through blending the best of both worlds, as fragrant oil is poured onto the occasionally troubled waters of our times. At Designer Shaik a range of entirely unique and individual products are researched, developed and created, with new collections being added every season. The product base is extensive and includes their renowned and revered perfumes, textiles, jewellery, fashion accessories and exquisite packaging. The Shaik is the very personification of the Designer Shaik aims and ethos.

Kingdom of the Shaik The Romantic History of Delmon Inspires a Precision Instrument of Today

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Internationally recognized for impeccable quality and stunning presentation; Designer Shaik, the Pride of Arabia, proudly announces the launch of the new Astro Duo Astrolabe of Moments in Time.

Many enlightened scholars and historians agree that the Garden of Eden was probably located in what is today known as Designer Shaik’s desert kingdom. From the battlements of his Palace of Horology, Designer Shaik can gaze across the sands and see the ancient and enigmatic Tree of Life. He feels a great kinship with his forebears, especially the aristocratic artists and craftsmen who were, five millennia ago, producing works of art with unparalleled skill, imagination and excellence. The beautiful and ingenious watches boast many unique and intriguing features and the intricately detailed patterns on the face are a visual expression of the complexities that lie beneath. This fascinating collection of different movements and sophistication is a luxury timepiece for generations to come.

01 Astro Duo Presentation 02 SSilver Astro Duo QA.SLV02.M1

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Special Feature

The world has seen nothing like these captivating and intriguing instruments before.

A Trinity of Mystical Indicators The Shaik has no need for clocks or watches to merely tell the time. He does, however, have a fascination and passion for the ancient Arabian instrument The Astrolabe.

Twelve hundred years ago, Arabian ingenuity found physical form in the beautiful and intricate device that could show the exact position of the stars in the heavens at any time and at any place on the face of the earth.

Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Jupiter and their brothers and sisters were welcomed into the celestial Houses of Taurus, Virgo, Gemini and the rest of the astrological dozen by the ancient Arabians. As the Shaik’s favourite and most inspirational time of day is sunset; an Astrolabe more than 1,000 years old can tell him at precisely which minute the sun will sink beneath the western horizon on any given day. The Shaik’s vision for the future Astrolabe Museum, which is planned to be housed within the

Palace of Horology, intends on attracting scholars from all around the globe, drawn to the unique collection that is set to be the largest in private hands. The world has seen nothing like these captivating and intriguing instruments before. The uniquely shaped hands that grace the watch face have been designed to form symbols that change through the passage of a day. The symbols and ciphers conjured at different points in the day serve as a reminder of an unseen world of mystical influences, which exist in parallel to lives today. Completely transcultural, The Astrolabe of Moments in Time acts as a bridge between people of all nations. Precision, accuracy, astronomy, mystical astrology and exclusivity are combined within the Astro Duo, Astrolabe of Moments in Time collections. We, like the Shaik, experience an Astronomical Emotion.

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Astro Duo Case Back

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Just a few of many symbols of time that captivates emotion around the clock

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Tower and other intricate

oriental motifs around the headquarters

Headquarters of Designer Shaik Palaces Designer Shaik promotes quality and luxury in every aspect of its business and is committed to creating products with true passion and inspiration. Their strength lies in their product portfolio and theme across all four Palaces, drawing on the Shaik’s passion and desert heritage.

The Shaik’s headquarters in the Kingdom of Bahrain is an ever-growing facility with state of the art technology.

The house is nurturing a passionate design team as well as dedicated support staff who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards customers expect, Designer Shaik constantly strives to improve business processes and maximize efficiency and opportunities.

As part of The Shaik’s expansion programme, a Creative Talent Village will be founded to promote and educate future generations in business and commerce, and to establish stronger routes to the luxury fashion retail industry in the Middle East & North Africa region. There will be various studios and workshops equipped with leading edge technology, not only to further develop the brand, but to also provide opportunities for young entrepreneurs and budding artisans alike. Dedicated plans in perfumery, water, watches and leather are part of Designer Shaik’s strategy and are already included in the blueprints to be shared with the world in the near future.

Their ultimate aim is to become the brand symbol of Arabia. Designer Shaik is the true brand of the region because of its unique theme, colour, culture and heritage of Arabia, which presents a positive image of the mystique, style and timelessness of the region to the rest of the world.

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Special Feature 08-10 The final pre-production masterpiece being presented to HM The King, closely followed by other variations of the masterpiece being presented to HRH The Prime Minister and HRH The Crown Prince

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The beautiful timepieces are the result of the cutting edge technology the Shaik so tirelessly researched, to ensure integrity of the highest possible quality.

A Moment in the Kingdom’s History After many years of creation using only state of the art technology, The House of Designer Shaik has proudly presented to the world an exquisite collection of chronometers. This was his first venture in to the realm of distinctive accessories for the most discerning of fashionistas.

The beautiful timepieces are the result of the cutting edge technology the Shaik so tirelessly researched, to ensure integrity of the highest possible quality.

Living in a Kingdom unknown for its industrial environment, it took years to attain a licence for a vertical high precision machine to be operated in the Shaik’s Palace of Horology. Finally having gathered all his resources, it allowed him to form different components and effectively deal with all the intricacies required to reach the final product.

The Shaik has accomplished his mission and created the Astro Duo, Astrolabe of Moments in Time, and was extremely honoured to present the final pre-production masterpiece to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for endorsement, and to celebrate this historic moment, a first in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Middle East.

Presentations have also been made to their Royal Highnesses, The Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, and The Crown Prince, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

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11 CEO, Designer Shaik Mohammed Al Asfoor receiving the award 12 The Best Existing Project Award 13 Mohammed Al Asfoor sharing a proud moment with Muhammad Yunus, Nobel Prize winner, and winner of Best Leading Figure at the awards 14 HRH Prince Abdul Aziz bin King Abdulla and other international leading figures at the Award Ceremony

Continuing to Achieve Worldwide Recognition Designer Shaik have been the recipients of many awards since their inception in 2002, including; Frontier “Brands” Magazine Buyers ‘Star Product of the Year’ award 2003, International Advertising Agency ‘Outstanding Achievement Award’ 2005, and Ministry of Labour ‘Excellence’ Award 2010 to name a few.

Designer Shaik was also proud to announce their latest global achievement in winning ‘Best Existing Project Prize’ in the Prince Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah Global Entrepreneurship Award 2014, succeeding in their aim of achieving worldwide recognition and acknowledgement for their unique, creative, and innovative ideas. The award is a first in the world of commerce, and marks an important milestone in recognition of outstanding entrepreneurs from across the globe. The prestigious

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award was presented to Designer Shaik on November 3rd, in a glittering awards ceremony hosted by The Centennial Fund at the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh. Some 600 participants from 42 countries submitted their entries, which were evaluated using universally recognised criteria.

Designer Shaik would like to extend thanks and gratitude to all those responsible for this prestigious event and for the appreciation shown towards the brand and the Shaik’s creations. Designer Shaik is honoured to dedicate this prize to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and His Majesty King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, and to the friendship of the two nations. www.designershaik.com

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Perfume

Nothing is more evocative of time, place and identity than scent.

For centuries, perfume has been an important form of personal expression, and this issue Durrah has made the task of selecting the right fragrance easier with a line-up of special luxury scents. With powerful design and layers of notes that continue to unfold, these fragrances develop an individual character when worn that is elegant, sumptuous and refined.

Scent of Luxury

Wonderoud, Commes des Garçons The ultimate incarnation of wood has been expressed in the new Wonderoud perfume by Japanese label Commes des Garçons. An aromatic resin, scented with subtle notes, Oud is one of nature’s most precious gifts, worth its weight in gold. The powerful and rich character of Wonderoud has a woody, animal, balsamic and even honey feel and texture. Key notes include Texas Cedarwood Fraction OrPur, Oud Wood, Indonesian Patchouli, Australian Sandalwood, Haitian Vetiver, Guaiac Wood and Pashminol. The Oud itself is from a 100% natural source, extracted from resinous sustainably grown Aquilaria trees. Lavish, indulgent and uncompromising, the brand has created the ultimate wood fragrance, celebrating the most precious wood of all. comme-des-garcons-parfum.com/perfumes/ wonderoud/

Elie Saab Le Parfum, Eau de Parfum – L’Edition Or Capturing the magic of Christmas, Elie Saab has developed a special limited edition of his first fragrance, decorating the iconic bottle with precious details. The neck is discreetly set and shaded with subtle gold, giving the bottle refinement and adding to its rarity. To echo this, Saab has designed a satiny gold box decorated with a white rectangle, whose purity adds a subtle contrast. Nestled inside the flamboyant flacon is the Couturier’s very first fragrance, the Eau de Parfum, whose composition remains unchanged.

From the very first notes, the dazzling burst of Orange Blossom sets the tone. Middle notes are sumptuous Royal and Sambac Jasmine Absolutes, and the fragrance is sensually enhanced with a gentle hint of pure “heart of Patchouli”. The tone of the white floral bouquet intensifies voluptuously in the bottom notes, with a Woody Cedar accord. As the trail unfolds, infinitely elegant and enveloping, Honey Rose adds to its array of addictive notes. www.eliesaab.com/le-parfum

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Perfume

CH Grand Tour, Carolina Herrera

Oud Amber Intense, Fragrance Du Bois

CH Carolina Herrera brings back the pleasure and luxury of the most exclusive train journeys with the new limited edition Grand Tour for men and women.

CH Grand Tour is the fragrance of experimentation and discovery, and is Carolina’s homage to the art of travel.

Representing the art of travelling, the fragrances tour of some of the basic ingredients of traditional perfumery with an exotic and adventurous touch.

The feminine fragrance hits you with a scent of Brazilian citrus fruit: orange, lemon and grapefruit, while the male version opens with a profusion of vibrant incense enhanced by a mix of Yerba Maté typical of Argentina. The perfumes fresh and vibrant aromas are housed in a bottle of new materials and gold finishes that make these limited editions a precious object for collectors.

A new addition to Du Bois’ Prive collection, Oud Amber Intense draws inspiration from the Orient, with a spicy, citrusy opening of bergamot, tangerine, black pepper and cinnamon. Flower, fruity woody notes of neroli, rose, blackcurrant and patchouli infuse the heart and held together with an amber accord. This mélange enfolds the senses at the end with musk and Du Bois’ signature 100% pure, natural Oud. Because of Du Bois’ commitment to using only sustainably sourced ingredients, the fragrance has also been endorsed by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and 5% of the proceeds from the sale of the fragrance goes to the foundation.

www.carolinaherrera.com

www.fragrancedubois.com

Bentley for Men Absolute Bentley has secured itself a firm position in the small group of international luxury fragrances and has now developed an exclusive new limited edition fragrance designed to meet the wishes of smart, elegant, statusconscious men: Bentley For Men Absolute.

Created by one of the world’s most famous perfume makers Michel Almairac, the luxurious Oud in Bentley for Men Absolute fulfils the promise of the word “absolute”.

The top note surprises, with a spicy cocktail of fresh ginger and pink peppercorns, and a hint of mystical frankincense. After several minutes, the heart note unfolds, with elegant woody aromas of papyrus, Atlas cedar and sandalwood – extremely powerful and masculine. The base note includes the most seductive essences in the world of fragrances: beguiling Oud, surrounded by sensuous ambergris and elegant harmonies of moss.

Colonia Oud Eau de Cologne Concentrée, Acqua di Parma This original and elegant fragrance Eau de Cologne Concentrée, was born from the authentic union of two olfactic themes; the vibrant and enveloping notes of Colonia, combined with the warm and deep Oud oil.

Oud oil is extremely rare, extracted from the Agarwood – a precious resin of the Aquilaria tree found in South East Asia.

The composition of the fragrance has an extraordinary personality. After an initial citrus aroma, a heart full of precious ingredients such as Agarwood, Russain Coriander and Haitian Amyris wood is revealed.

A new interpretation is born in Eau de Cologne Concentrée, which is the most masculine of the Colonias, and is a structured blend that evolves into musk and leather. colonia-oud.acquadiparma.com

bentley-fragrances.com

The top note surprises, with a spicy cocktail of fresh ginger and pink peppercorns, and a hint of mystical frankincense.

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Perfume

A Drop of Sunshine

Drawing inspiration from his experiences as he bottles art and emotion, Christopher Chong, Creative Director of luxury brand Amouage, introduces us to another chapter in his life with the Midnight Flower Collection. The collection consists of a range of candles and room sprays, as well as an Eau de Parfum for women called ‘Sunshine’. An exploration of the healing process we go through after losing a loved one, the Midnight Flower Collection is a celebration of the memories they leave us with.

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hristopher Chong is a storyteller. As the Creative Director of luxury perfume house Amouage, he narrates stories, creating products that are facets of himself and portraits of his life. His creations are a looking glass into his world, one that we can all relate to. Chong’s personal approach has allowed the brand to break the confines of market trends and resonate with people on a more intimate level.

With the Midnight Flower Collection, Chong translates his healing process from losing a loved one into a collection of candles and room sprays, named after each step he needed to take to find solace.

“Creating this collection was my way of healing.

What I really learned throughout this process is that we never really lose our loved ones. They live on forever in our thoughts,” says Chong. ‘Hope’, he explains, is the first of many emotions in the healing process. It is a step towards remembering the ‘Love’ we felt, leading us to once again be ‘Happy’ and to ‘Smile’ with the memories of those no longer with us.

Chong thoughtfully chose each ingredient for the way it spoke to him and his sentiments. With a floral heart of Rose, Violet and Ylang Ylang piercing through strong, spicy top notes of Pepper, Ginger and Cardamom, Hope is restored while serenity is found in a base of Incense, Patchouli, Sandalwood and Oakmoss. Love, being the powerful sensation that it is, opens with sharp Grapefruit, Orange and Aldehyde to a deepened heart of Rose and Patchouli that recede to a base of Vanilla, Musk and Cistus. When coming to terms with a loss, we inevitably begin to remember cherished moments we shared with our loved ones and Happy’s wonderfully warm top notes of Cinnamon, Clove and Nutmeg, together with a heart of Rose, Heliotrope, Plum and Almond, invoke these memories and radiate them with a long-lasting base of Pine, Patchouli, Sandalwood and Vanilla. Chong used more playful ingredients for Smile such as Raspberry, Almond, Madeleine, Biscuit and Vanilla to brighten the spirit.

“Smiling, although perhaps the simplest of gestures, is

often the hardest when grieving but when it does happen, it signifies that you are ready to let go, having learnt to hold onto the moments of joy your loved one left you with,” says Chong.

The collection’s ‘Hope’, ‘Love’, ‘Happy’ and ‘Smile’ candles and room sprays are joined by an exuberant, white floral Eau de Parfum. ‘Sunshine’ for women articulates the collection’s theme with youthful top notes of Almond, Blackcurrant Liqueur and Davana that open to an intense bouquet of Osmanthus, Jasmine, Vanilla and Magnolia in the heart and bold Cade, Patchouli, Papyrus and Tobacco Blond in the base. Expressing the beginning of brighter days in the healing process, this fragrance is presented in Amouage’s iconic glass crystal bottle in a brazen, iridescent sunshine hue and housed in a cool azure, mosaic box with gold foil illustrations. Starting anew, a golden Swarovski crystal sits atop the refreshingly white cap to resemble a shining overhead sun at high noon. “It is difficult to come out of the dark after losing someone but sunshine always breaks through the clouds,” says Chong.

Every aspect of Sunshine, from its bright ingredients to its sun-kissed bottle, reflects Chong’s vision. This great attention to detail and the commitment to staying true to the narrative are apparent throughout the creative process, right down to the box design. In keeping with the notion that loved ones live on in our memories, the box, with a removable insert, was designed to be repurposed to safe keep ornaments and mementos.

It’s the little touches that make a brand that has been around for over three decades unforgettable. Amouage has found its signature voice with narratives told by Christopher Chong. He says, “Our sole focus during the creation process is to make something beautiful and special that speaks to people on a personal level. I find inspiration in what seems at first to be prosaic everyday life but they are relatable, and the narratives that link our products to one another enable us to build a deeper, more memorable connection with our consumers.” www.sunshine.com

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Fashion

Modern Heritage Launching from the United Arab Emirates comes a new global brand with modern local style. Feathers is inspired by the local Emirati environment, with jewellery and accessories that encompass an abundance of beauty and novelty. The brands creations are of the highest standard of quality, making a distinct luxury fashion line that stands amongst international brands.

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he vitality of the local Arab environment, particularly the Arabian Gulf environment, constantly inspires many through its richness of culture and tradition.

Through the profound vision and wise philosophy of Feathers, the brand seeks to interpret this legacy and employ it in the creativity and beauty in its products.

The heritage of the United Arab Emirates in particular is the source of inspiration for Feathers, which takes its designs from the history of the Emirates through new paths of creativity. It is a matter of great appreciation for heritage and the local environment to become a source of aesthetic inspiration in the world of global brands and Feathers has proved this inspiration to work in its favour, as it becomes a competitor of internationally stylish products for the brands quality and uniqueness.

Since necessity is the mother of invention, and due to the need for local products of world-class standards, Feathers is the brand that fills that gap providing quality merchandise and meeting customer’s wants and expectations. Moreover, a study of the market highlighted the need for specific products that satisfy Arabian tastes and respects and reflects Arab customs and traditions, thus Feathers

offers products that symbolise cultural pride. All these aspects were the motivation to initiate Feathers as brand, making exclusive high quality items with local style. Unique in its excellence, Feathers extends a promising future for its manufacturing amongst the leading industries in the world.

The name of the brand is inspired by peacock feathers, which symbolically carry a magnitude of elegance, beauty and high esteem, and was inspired by the brand logo of the trappings of local architecture.

The brand was established on 10th October 2010 in the United Arab Emirates’ capital Abu Dhabi, and now has four branches in major shopping malls in the UAE. The Feathers collection includes items for both men and women. This includes leather handbags in different forms and sizes, with unique designs of local motifs, characterised by the richness of their materials, colours and precise detail and beauty. There are also silk scarves featuring local designs and taking into account the taste of women in the Arabian Gulf. In addition, a variety of jewellery has been produced by Feathers, such as necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings made of gold and silver, in different shapes

01 An elegant set for men including a genuine leather wallet, pen and cufflinks 02 Unique cufflinks featuring FEATHERS distinctive monogram 03 Khalid Basaeed, the founder of FEATHERS 04 The Zayed watch for men and women with a camel leather strap 05 A limited edition pen made of pure sterling silver, with HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s face engraved on it 06 A set of handbags for women, handmade in the UAE 07 A range of different coloured men’s leather wallets, with distinctive FEATHERS pattern 08 A beautiful silk twill scarf with an Islamic pattern

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and sizes. Also included are men’s accessories such as cufflinks, key chains and other items.

The collection also has watches for ladies and men, designed in the UAE and manufactured in the most prestigious Swiss factories. As is the case with many international brands, Feathers has produced a series of special perfumes that are consistent with its philosophy and authentic style. In addition to this, bespoke pens made in the finest German factories and leather cases made in the UAE. Feathers as a brand is moving steadily towards achieving its international goals with a local style that accepts only the highest quality standards, and is aspiring to represent the name of the United Arab Emirates and the Arab world amongst global brands. Feathers leads the way amongst Arab brands in its reputation, style and manufacturing quality.

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www.feathers-fashion.com instagram: @FeathersFashion

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Culture

A Sacred Treasure Dedicated to presenting an overview of the artistic, intellectual, and scientific contributions that Muslim civilizations have made to world heritage, The Aga Khan Museum was opened

by His Highness the Aga Khan in Toronto in September this year.

Durrah speaks with Director and CEO of the Museum, Henry Kim to hear more about the incredible landmark.

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is Highness the Aga Khan is perhaps best known as a development pioneer. As Chairman of the Board of the Aga Khan Museum, he says, “One of the lessons we have learned in recent years is that the world of Islam and the Western world need to work together much more effectively at building mutual understanding – especially as these cultures interact and intermingle more actively. We hope that this Museum will contribute to a better understanding of the peoples of Islam in all of their religious, ethnic, linguistic, and social diversity.”

From their earliest origins, Muslim civilizations have been characterized by a remarkable diversity of geographies, languages, and cultures. Toronto – and Canada more generally – is internationally recognized for embracing such diversity. Therefore the city was the perfect location for The Aga Khan Museum, providing an ideal home for an institution that strives to promote mutual understanding, respect, and tolerance among the world’s cultures.

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Culture 01 Some of the extensive collections on display.

Image by Gary Otte 02 Ablution Basin Jingdezhen, China, 1506–21 Porcelain. © The Aga Khan Museum 03 The museum’s exterior is made from white Brazilian granite.

Image by Gary Otte 04 Natural light filters into the museum.

Image by Gary Otte 05 Capital Spain (Historic al-Andalus), 10th century carved marble. © The Aga Khan Museum

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The Museum’s Permanent Collection of over 1,000 objects includes masterpieces that reflect a broad range of artistic styles and materials. These portraits, textiles, miniatures, manuscripts, ceramics, tiles, medical texts, books, and musical instruments represent more than ten centuries of human history and a geographic area stretching from the Iberian Peninsula to China.

Since 2007, over 1 million people have experienced the splendour of the Aga Khan Museum Collection. The Musée du Louvre in Paris, the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, the Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon, the Martin-Gropius-Bau in Berlin, the Sakip Sabanci Museum in Istanbul, the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, and the Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore have all hosted temporary exhibitions of major works of art from the Aga Khan Museum Collection.

“The Aga Khan Museum has an international outlook,” observes Henry Kim, Director of the Museum. “Home to a collection of astonishingly beautiful works of art, it showcases the artistic creativity and achievements of Muslim civilizations from Spain to China. I think local and international visitors will be greatly surprised when they discover just how much the arts of Muslim civilizations are a part of our shared global cultural heritage.”

Designed by architect Fumihiko Maki, the Museum shares a 17-acre site with Toronto’s Ismaili Centre, which was designed by architect Charles Correa. In a personal letter to architect Fumihiko Maki, His Highness the Aga Khan suggested the Museum be designed around the concept of light. Light, His Highness noted, has been an enduring inspiration for the world’s religions and civilizations since earliest times.

Maki responded with a design that invites direct and diffuse light into the building in ingenious ways.

The building is positioned 45 degrees to solar north to ensure that all exterior surfaces receive natural light over the course of the day. Angular walls of white Brazilian granite, a material chosen for its resilience and luminosity, enhance the play of light across building surfaces.

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The design centres around an inner courtyard, which in the words of architect Fumihiko Maki, is positioned to “integrate the different functions [of the Museum] into a cohesive whole while allowing each space to maintain its independence, privacy and character.” The courtyard’s open roof filters natural light through 13-metre-tall double-glass walls etched with mashrabiya patterns. Its floor features an intricate tri-colour mosaic comprised of construction-grade lapis from Namibia, limestone from France, and the same white Brazilian granite found on the Museum’s exterior cladding. The surrounding landscaped park was designed by landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic, and provides an exciting new green space for the city of Toronto.

The Museum was established and developed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), which is an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). The AKTC focuses on the physical, social, cultural, and economic revitalization of communities in the developing world, but some of its programs, including the Museum, span both the developed and developing worlds.

His Highness the Aga Khan is founder and Chairman of the AKDN, a private, international, non-denominational development organization, which is active in 30 countries and employs over 80,000 people globally. Its ten agencies address complex development issues, including the provision of quality healthcare and education services, cultural and economic revitalization, micro-enterprise, entrepreneurship and economic development, the advancement of civil society, and the protection of the environment.

His Highness is also the 49th hereditary Imam (Spiritual Leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. In Islam’s ethical tradition, religious leaders not only interpret the faith but also have a responsibility to help improve the quality of life in their community and in the societies among which they live. For His Highness the Aga Khan, this has meant a deep engagement with development for over 50 years through the agencies of the AKDN and The Aga Khan Museum is one example of this ethical tradition. www.agakhanmuseum.org 04

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Culture

Interview with Director and CEO of the Aga Khan Museum, Henry Kim What was the key motivation for opening the Aga Khan Museum?

When His Highness the Aga Khan conceived the Museum, he wanted to create an institution that would be educational and that would help address the lack of knowledge about the Muslim world in the West. He has talked a great deal about how this lack of knowledge contributes to a “clash of ignorance” – as opposed to the notion of a “clash of civilizations”. It represents a sheer lack of knowledge and understanding in the West about the very different cultures and societies that exist within the Muslim world.

How long did it take to plan everything?

The concept of the museum began in the year 2000.

Planning took roughly a decade, during which we took parts of the collection to various cities around the world, including London, Paris, Lisbon, Madrid, St. Petersburg, Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The foundation stone of the Museum was laid in 2010 and construction took a little over three years.

What made you choose Toronto as the location for opening the museum?

It was important to locate the museum in a region that did not already have one dedicated to promoting understanding of the Islamic world through the display of art and objects from the Muslim world. Toronto is North America’s fourth largest city. It is very multicultural, diverse.

It is a major conference and tourist destination for North Americans, so we felt it was a good location for a Museum with such a mission.

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How was the architecture of the new museum conceptualized? Was it inspired by something in particular?

Light. In his instruction to Fumihiko Maki, His Highness the Aga Khan asked that the Museum reflect the importance of light; in Islamic terms and in terms of the abstract notion of light and the light of human creativity.

What has the response to the opening been like?

There has been great interest in the Museum, particularly from the press, both Canadian and international.

I think it is seen as a seminal event in terms of promoting understanding of a largely unknown world. People in North America have been curious about the Muslim world and the Museum provides a way to learn more about that world in all its plurality and diversity.

06 Prime Minister Stephen Harper (left) speaking with Dr. Henry Kim (right) in the permanent gallery of the Museum.

Image by Gary Otte 07 Muslim civilizations are characterized by a remarkable diversity of geographies, languages, and cultures.

Image by Gary Otte 08 An overview of the artistic, intellectual, and scientific contributions of Muslim civilisations.

Image by Gary Otte 09 The Museum’s Permanent Collection has over 1,000 objects.

Image by Gary Otte

In your opinion, what are the most influential pieces displayed in the museum?

The pieces that resonate the most, in my opinion, illustrate the cross-fertilization of cultures – how the Muslim world interacted with other cultures, contributed to world heritage and knowledge, and how it should be better known for its achievements. We hope that through pieces like Ibn Sina’s “Qanun” of Medicine and the 14th century Andalusian astrolabe people will see that the Muslim world is central to the human story, not peripheral to it.

What do you find most fascinating about the Muslim civilization and their contributions to the world?

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There is much to fascinate. Our job is to show people that in all human endeavours, there have been contributions from Muslim civilizations – in architecture as in poetry, in science as in philosophy, in mathematics as in art.

Where have the collections for the Aga Khan museum been sourced from?

The core of the collection was assembled from art collected by members of His Highness’ family, including the famous collection of his uncle, Prince Sadruddin, with additional pieces added that would help with the educational mission of the Museum.

As the most recent project of The Aga Khan Trust for Culture, how has the Museum assisted the AKTC in achieving its mission?

The Museum, like the AKTC, fosters knowledge and understanding both within Muslim societies and between these societies and other cultures. Although Muslim societies comprise a quarter of the world’s population, people in the West have a limited knowledge of the Muslim world and its faith. The Aga Khan Museum’s educational programme provides visitors with an understanding of the artistic, intellectual, scientific and religious heritage of communities, both Muslim and non-Muslim, which pervaded the lands of Islam.

What do you hope to achieve through the opening of this great landmark?

At the opening, Prince Amyn, His Highness the Aga Khan’s brother, spoke eloquently about the Museum’s purpose: “I believe strongly that art and culture can have a profound impact in healing misunderstanding and in fostering trust even across great divides. This is the extraordinary purpose, the special mandate, to which this Museum is dedicated. In its role to reveal and to stimulate dialogue between different cultures, the Aga Khan Museum will continue a long history of cultural sharing between Islam and the West.”

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Special Feature

The Seguso family is one of the oldest Muraneese dynasties still active on the island of Murano – the first document identifying their presence dates back to 1397. Today Seguso is still synonymous with Italian excellence of style and skilled manufacturing through the production of artistic items, lighting, and interior accents by the brands, Seguso Viro, Seguso Vetri d’Arte, Seguso Interiors. CEO Gianluca Seguso speaks with Durrah about the history of his family’s business.

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he Segusos are one of the most prolific families in the contribution to the Muraneese glass culture of the 1900s. Today, the company is guided by the two sons of Giampaolo; Gianluca and Pierpaolo Seguso, CEO and Creative Director respectively. Under their direction many important achievements have been accomplished such as the creation of Seguso USA in New York – which in just a few years was able to open several representative showrooms and initiate cooperation with the finest architects and interior designers on custom projects.

Gianluca and Pierpaolo were able to reacquire Seguso Vetri d’Arte, started in 1933 as an extraordinary glass furnace and brand of artistic expression from the 1930s to the 1970s. Under the artistic guidance of Flavio Poli and due to the great mastery of Seguso, this glass factory won several international recognitions and produced glasswork that can be found today

in museum collections throughout the world. In 1954 Seguso Vetri d’Arte won the first edition of the Compasso d’Oro and in the 1960s they crafted extraordinary chandeliers for the Vatican.

Today the Seguso group brings together tradition and modernity, offering the most comprehensive range of Murano glass production in various product categories: objects for interior decor and collectibles, articles for tableware and the home, as well as gifts, jewellery, lighting and furniture.

Many are the achievements of historical Seguso glass for public and private clients. The archive of historical drawings, studies and executive projects is an artistic and cultural heritage that bears witness to the important contribution of the Seguso Family to the lighting sector in Murano glass. They are also a source of inexhaustible inspiration for many contemporary projects.

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Special Feature

01 Seguso Pier Chandelier 02 Seguso Canneto Chandelier 03 Seguso Vento wall lamp 04 Seguso Consolle table

The furnace of Seguso is an exceptional place, where sand and fire mark the beginning of an alchemy that transforms incandescent matter into precious objects. Here glass goes through something that has remained unchanged since ancient times, according to knowledge and techniques handed down from generation to generation. The Master craftsman gives breath to unique forms, each of which is never perfectly repeatable. Thus, the round mass – acting with the end of the rod in the cauldron of the furnace – miraculously swells and lives. Now that the matter has a shape, the Master expands, squeezes, and rolls with the help of simple tools such as scissors and forceps – the synthesis of generations and centuries of experience.

As in a dance, rapid and decisive movements alternate with slow, gentle movements. It is not only an ancient tradition, but has a deep sense of transparency, fragility and delicacy of the work in glass.

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The many brands under the Seguso name are as follows: Seguso Vetri d’Arte The reacquisition of Seguso Vetri d’Arte by the Seguso family allowed the company to rediscover the origins of the classical style through the exploration of historical archives from their family. Many techniques were explored and utilised to realise art items as the symbol of the value of time. Sommerso, Coste, Ritorti are a few examples of the techniques produced with great knowledge and resolute elegance that were given new life.

Seguso Viro Following a parallel and distinguished course, Seguso Viro renews the magic of glass by combining colour, technique and design. With the goal to amaze, each work of Seguso Viro looks like a fashion maison, underlining the authentic skill in manufacturing of Murano glass. The spell, which

grows from the wisdom of craftsmen, makes every object a limited edition piece of art.

Seguso Interiors This division continues the chapter of the Seguso legacy that is dedicated to the decoration and lighting of interiors, as well as furniture and architectural elements. A dream of innovation, it is always a coherent and elegant design that melds tradition and innovation.

Lighting: combines the tradition of Seguso Venetian glass into an original line of distinctive avant-garde and contemporary styles, consisting of chandeliers, sconces, table lamps, floor lamps, and lanterns.

Furniture: tables, side tables, benches and mirrors are in the collection, and transfer the luxury and elegance of the palazzos of Venice with the unique magic of Seguso glass. The legs are enriched with luminous blown glass following the wisdom of Muraneese techniques, produced with an exclusive

design patent confirming the strong Seguso identity.

Architectural accents: decorative projects made with the expertise of the factory and its wide production capabilities, where dimensions and new challenges do not represent a limit, creating decorative elements, such as internal and external handles and any other exclusive elements required.

Seguso Vetri d’Arte, Seguso Viro and Seguso Interiors have produced glass for royal families, the Vatican, and many major institutions, as well as for international luxury brands such as Donghia, Swarovski, Armani, Frette, Fendi, Blumarine and Rolex. The brand also functions as a production source of custom pieces for the finest residential and commercial interiors, in collaboration with top designers throughout world. www.seguso.com

Today the Seguso group brings together tradition and modernity, offering the most comprehensive range of Murano glass production in various product categories.

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Special Feature

05 Gianluca Seguso on the left 06 Exploring the Seguso Experience 07 Seguso Malpaga mirror

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Interview with CEO Gianluca Seguso How would you define the brand philosophy of Seguso?

Our brand, or ‘Maison Seguso’ as Mr. Stanislas de Quercize (President of Cartier) suggested we call it during a visit, is the result of continuous respect for the past and desire of innovation. We can say that ours is a company that above all takes care of the details without compromise, and bases the evolution on our four core values; Integrity, Mastery, Sustainability and Beauty.

What does it mean to you, continuing a business that has been in your family for more than six hundred years?

At first gives us a strong sense of pride, but daily it brings us a deep sense of responsibility with the understanding that we are at the beginning of the next six hundred years.

What have been some of the advantages of having such a rich history of glass making?

It is always a dance between advantages and disadvantages; the secret has been to stay very close to our DNA and loyal to the manufacturing process.

What goes into producing a Seguso glasswork?

A Seguso glasswork has without a doubt the highest level of intricacy and respect for staying a genuine product, which comes from the experience of the highly skilled artisans working with us. We are not less expensive than others, but the refined detail and attention given to each process make us the exclusive “tailor of the art glass” and makes us the manufacturer that deliver the highest added value to the product by far. And a suggestion is come and see us; Pierpaolo my brother and myself will be happy to put our staff available in order to explain and give the guarantee of a genuine Seguso product from 1397.

How do you maintain the balance between tradition and innovation in your collections?

We at Seguso have a definition for tradition. For us the tradition is the sequence of great innovation of the past; in

this concept there is no need to find the balance between tradition and innovation as the tradition of tomorrow is the innovation of today…if and only if it has been handled with respect for the value and core business of the past.

What have been some of your favourite moments in the brands history?

I could answer in two ways; every day has been my favourite, or my favourite moment is tomorrow. When you have passion and you love what you do, you might have tough days and great days, but one never comes without the other. The secret of longevity is looking ahead.

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How would you describe the typical Seguso customer?

More than a customer, usually once someone comes to purchase from us they become a friend, a fan, or a member supporting our history and legacy like an ambassador. Our clients – or as mentioned, friends – are looking for something that is distinguished as the highest quality and is not easily accessible.

What can you tell us about the tours Seguso offer, to learn about the glass making experience?

Actually we do not give tours, but we made possible the opportunity for a selected number of people per week by appointment, to dive into our history. It is a short unique journey into the past of Seguso and glassmaking, which is a multisensory experience that cannot be described, but only experienced. You can email experience@seguso.com to find out more.

Where do you see the company headed over the next few years?

Constantly moving toward excellent new products, we are also educating about the process of manufacturing and contniuing the legacy of Seguso. It is clear that the path we had in the past was correct. This was also confirmed by recent auction results at Christies and Piasa, which saw Seguso decorative pieces starting at 10-15,000 Euros and ending between 80-100,000 Euros per piece.

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Why Double Moisturising?

To PRIME clean skin and ENRICH your complexion.

SENSAI’s Double Moisturising ritual is designed to fully replenish the skin, first by hydrating and priming, then by adding enriching nourishment for a revitalised complexion. A total anti-ageing skincare formula enriched with Koishimaru Silk EX, new CELLULAR PERFORMANCE tackles the signs of skin ageing to nurture silky skin.

Skin enriched with the moisture of Silk

www.sensai-cosmetics.com

CELLULAR PERFORMANCE

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Masterpiece

A fusion of cultures, nationalities and religions, artist Yahya’s reputation has been established on a refined luxury, which is both discreet and timeless. With no previous artistic training, his work is characterized by contrasting yet complimentary influences and is a harmonious fusion of eastern elegance and western minimalism. Durrah chats with the artist to find out more.

Artistic Fusion

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esigner, creator and artist, Yahya was born in London in 1972 to an Anglo-German, Irish Christian mother and a Jewish Moroccan father from Meknes. He embraced Islam on his travels to Morocco where he discovered the ancient art of metal-working and an unknown, hidden artistic side to his nature.

A former martial arts instructor and events organizer, Yahya moved to Marrakech in 2002 with his wife and six children. Here he established his atelier and opened his first gallery, which was an immediate success. Since then, the artist has been commissioned to create unique, bespoke pieces for prestigious international projects, and more recently has opened an architectural and interior design agency.

Recognised for a sophisticated simplicity and purity, Yahya’s creations are both chic and contemporary, often infused with delicate oriental touches that bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. The work is characterized by a precision

and obsessive attention to detail, combined with an innovative approach to design and production, which transcends fashions and trends.

From the smallest through to the largest creations, from inlaid mother of pearl jewellery boxes through to 12 meter chandeliers, each piece is made completely by hand and the result of a unique heritage and a tradition of forgotten ancestral techniques. The quality, consistency and finishing is of the highest standard possible.

Yahya’s body of work is diverse and encompasses many materials, working with wood, crystal, glass, leather and marble to create collections of lighting, furniture, decorative accessories, artworks and sculptures. He is not afraid to experiment in order to explore different methods, ideas and possibilities that enable him to develop new techniques.

Difficult to classify, the works of art are subtle but sophisticated, audacious yet mysterious. Passionate

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Some pieces have necessitated over 100 artisans about 18 months of work to complete, which would have taken a single artisan more than a lifetime to realise. about his art, removed from the constraints of formal training, Yahya is a visionary, in constant search of the artistic ideal. He has developed a distinct and individual style, which transcends classification and crosses cultures.

After establishing his workshop in Marrakech in 2002, Yahya gained the freedom to design and create whilst maintaining a complete control over every aspect of the production process, from research and development through to the finished product. By integrating the intricate art of hand-sawn jewellery work, the fusion of art and design has sublimated the work of his artisans and elevated his objects into the realm of art.

Developing innovative sawing, mounting and welding techniques, Yahya has managed to break in his artisans the formal rigid approach of their previous training. The hand-picked artisans have been carefully selected to ensure that every aspect of the production of his designs can be completed in house. Almost every piece created requires the accumulated savoir-

faire of at least 20 different departments of mastercraftsmen, from conception, design and production through to finishing and lighting. Some pieces have necessitated over 100 artisans about 18 months of work to complete, which would have taken a single artisan more than a lifetime to realise.

Yahya’s atelier is a laboratory of exploration, innovation and experimentation where the established rules of received wisdom are challenged, and forgotten ancestral techniques are revived, preserved and modernised in the pursuit of artistic excellence. Yahya has had to rapidly expand his production facility and has undertaken a meticulous recruitment and training process to cope with the enormous demand generated.

Today he is surrounded by 200 of the most talented and gifted artisans, technicians and engineers who have been carefully chosen to accompany him on his artistic voyage.

In 2005, without fanfare or publicity, or even a sign on the shop, Yahya discreetly designed, built and opened his first gallery to the public in Marrakech. Six

01 Private Guest House, Marrakech. Hand-made Sphere chandelier. Brass, aged bronze finish 02 A personal image of Artist Yahya 03 Private Villa, Marrakech.

Hand-sawn chandelier.

Brass, aged bronze finish and engraved glass 04 Hand-made flame floor lamp. Brass, aged bronze finish with wooden base

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weeks later all the stock had sold out, through word of mouth alone, and visitors started arriving from all over the world to make orders, discuss projects and commission special pieces. The gallery is a showcase for Yahya’s work, from Collection pieces through to limited edition Creation and one off art pieces. Many lines of lighting, furniture, decorative accessories and artwork are also presented.

In 2011, Yahya opened a design agency in the centre of Marrakech to satisfy client demand and their individual projects. Yahya also collaborates with some of the most renowned international architects and interior designers, to create larger structures that translate the intricacy and sophistication of his finely tuned work to an architectural scale. He has been commissioned to design bespoke pieces of art, furniture and lighting, and travels internationally to make exceptional pieces designed for special clients.

Yahya has been commissioned to work on some of the leading hotels in the world, including the Royal Mansour in Marrakech. He has been given

the freedom to create outstanding chandeliers as well as exceptional doors, fountains, chimneys and other signature pieces that are often technically challenging and complicated to realise.

The artist is frequently commissioned to created many works of art and sculptures that are mostly one-off pieces and worked on a collection of 25 pieces with the calligrapher Mehdi Qotbi, which was exhibited in Paris at the ‘Institut du Monde Arabe’ in 2013. A meeting of two minds and a fusion of souls, the collection is a dialogue of peace, respect, tolerance and brotherhood between all faiths and cultures.

However different in scope or nature, all of Yahya’s work possesses a particular essence that inspires a sense of meditation, reflections and wonderment, which transcends different cultures and bridges the gap between East and West, tradition and modernity, whilst bringing closer together the worlds of art and design. www.yahya-group.com

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Interview with Yahya How did you first develop an interest in art and design?

In my youth, I was told that I was going to be a writer and I never considered I was ever going to be an artist or designer, simply because I was very poor at drawing and got thrown out of art class at school. I’m actually selftaught, and I fell into this business of art by accident.

Where do you gain most of your inspiration from?

It was on my journeys to Morocco, that I fell in love with light and metal-working and basically that is where my inspiration came from. It opened my eyes to the possibility of sawing beautiful pieces of metal and projecting wonderful shadows and patterns onto ceilings, inspired from my visits to Morocco.

How would you describe your signature style?

I would say that because I’m self-taught, it is a fusion of many different styles that doesn’t actually follow one particular school. People describe it as a fusion of East and West, it can be very oriental, very contemporary, I’m not held to work in a particular style or a particular material and I do all sorts of different types of things that pushes the boundaries and blur the boundaries between art and design. My intention was to contemporize Islamic design to give it a modern sophistication and elegance that sublimates the handy craft to artwork.

What are your favourite materials to work with?

My favourite material to work with principally is metal, but I love working with glass, crystal, wood, marble – anything really that attracts me, and helps me to reach my artistic goal, whatever that might be given whatever project I’m doing.

It could be that I’m doing an architectural screen where I’m using hand-cut metal, or it could be that I’m using cut marble.

It could be that we are carving into wood, it could be that we doing a six meter chandelier of blown crystal and glass, which is falling down the stairway, it all depends.

Does Marrakech influence your work?

Yes. It was there that I felt in love with light and I discovered jewellery work and the metal workers, that I started designing stuff with. But now, because I’m such a mixed person in terms of my ethnic, religious and cultural background, I’m influenced so much by wherever I go. I could go to Japan, and see things that inspired me that just add to my artistic repertoire, and create a new way of looking at things. I am inspired by everything and everywhere, even if it is to know what not to do or try.

How do you main such exceptional and consistent quality in your work?

Because I’m very, very exceptionally fussy about the quality of the work that we do, and it is has to be as close to perfection as is humanly possible. I have teams of quality controllers who check every single detail that’s made, every single piece along the way, and then again at the end, in order to make sure that all is absolutely of the highest quality possible.

What have been some of your favourite or most memorable projects?

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There are so many that it is difficult to mention.

Some of the art exhibitions that I’ve done or some of the exceptional chandeliers that I’ve made for various palaces around the world; I’ve worked for projects as diverse as a sprawling state of a hundred hectares in the Hamptons in America, through to palaces in the Gulf, through to exceptional projects in Beverly Hills, it all depends.

What advice would you offer young artists starting their career?

The advice that I would offer, would be don’t feel held back by the rules. I didn’t know the rules, so I just did what I did and people seemed to like it and it seems to have worked. Don’t be afraid of trying new things, because it’s through failures sometimes that you can appreciate success and also at the same time you can discover things that weren’t necessarily relevant or apparent to start with. So, it is very important to always push the boundaries, try new things, and not be afraid to fail. As Albert Einstein said, “the person who has never made any mistakes is the person who has never tried anything new.”

What’s next for you?

Who knows? I’m always doing different things, but I think it might now be the time to start accepting design projects, where I have been asked to do the whole project, including the architecture, the interior and the landscape design. This will be where I assemble teams of professionals who can help translate my artistic vision, because my work is not limited necessarily to light, artwork or interiors. I look at everything and I see it as a whole, there are so many different parts, but I don’t see the individual part, I just see how it works together like a watch to create the whole.

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05 From Invisible Light Exhibition – Royal Mansour Marrakech, 2014. Artwork N° 13 – SALAAM. Polished stainless steel 06 From Invisible Light Exhibition, Royal Mansour Marrakech, 2014. Left side of Artwork N° 12 - THE WALL. Brass, aged bronze finish. Right side of artwork N° 18 - EAST AND WEST. Brass, aged bronze finish 07 From Invisible Light Exhibition, Royal Mansour Marrakech, 2014. Artwork N° 25 – AMPHORA. Polished stainless steel 08 From Invisible Light Exhibition, Arab World Institute, Paris, 2013.

Artwork N° 5 – STELE. Brass, aged bronze finish 09 From Invisible Light Exhibition, Arab World Institute, Paris, 2013.

Artwork N° 26 – LOVE. Polished stainless steel.

Marrakech 2012 10 Hand-sawn Mini Sphere Candle-Holder. Brass, aged bronze finish

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Special Feature

A Classic Event

What started as a casual idea by classic car enthusiast Thierry Giovannini while visiting Malta in 2007, the Mdina Grand Prix has since developed into a highly anticipated occasion for classical car enthusiasts across the globe. This thrilling event completed its sixth edition this October, and fourth year in the picturesque setting beneath the majestic bastions of Mdina.

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n October, 2007 a French entrepreneur and classic car enthusiast by the name of Thierry Giovannini successfully organized Malta’s first ever Classic Car Grand Prix on the ring road circling the capital city of Valletta. On that occasion, Malta saw some of Europe’s finest classic cars touring around our Islands and bringing the event to a climax with a weekend of breathtaking wheel to wheel racing on the Valletta circuit. There was an incredible array of cars ranging from 1920s and 1930s Bugattis, to 1950s Ferraris and a Maserati, Jaguars, an Alfa Romeo P2, a Ford GT40, all prestigious cars, and many others.

Such was the interest generated by this singular event amongst local classic car enthusiasts that a number of them got together and, on 19th April, 2009, the Valletta Grand Prix Foundation was set up for the purpose, primarily, of carrying on with what Thierry Giovannini had started: the holding of an annual classic

car racing event round the Valletta ring road.

The Foundation’s first of such events for local participants was held that same year, with the backing of local authorities and a handful of adventurous sponsors, and it proved to be a great success among participants, enthusiasts and the public at large. This was then followed by a larger and equally successful event on the Valletta circuit, this time with overseas participants taking part, in 2010.

The following year, however, owing to the commencement of massive construction works in Valletta, the Foundation was forced to seek another suitable venue for its annual event. It was no surprise that the choice fell on Mdina, the Old Capital City of Malta, which proffered a 2.2 Km circuit, which seemed to have been purposely laid out for streetcar racing.

Starting off from the Old Train Station beneath the majestic walls of the Medieval City, crossing the valley

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to beneath Mtarfa, a small town that housed British Military Barracks and a Military Hospital for almost a century, and returning to beneath the walls of Mdina, this circuit offered challenging corners, a hill climb and narrow winding roads, with sufficient straights to allow overtaking and provide as many thrills as any driver could wish for.

With the backing of local authorities, the Foundation’s event was transferred in 2011 to this new circuit, where it has remained in the two years that followed, growing in stature and popularity, with the participation of prestige local and foreign vehicles, being well backed by more and more sponsors of repute and attracting ever increasing numbers o spectators, both local and foreign.

Now, in its fourth year, the Mdina Grand Prix was held from October 9-15 as thousands flocked to Mdina to watch the action-filled races. The weekend events were packed with adrenaline; first on the agenda was a 2.6km hill climb, which Thomas Smith Group sponsored exclusively. Drivers relived the centuries of their classic cars at Friday’s Concours d’Elegance, held in the main square of the Medieval City, in which the finest local period cars and motorbikes vied for trophies with the

swelling numbers of overseas participants’ entries.

The Mdina Grand Prix came to a celebratory close on Sunday evening when Mr Charlie Cutajar was announced as the overall winner of this year’s Mdina Grand Prix and presented with a coveted Chopard Mille Miglia 2014 watch by Drew Campbell Smith from Chopard Geneva, who flew down especially for the event.

The smooth management and logistics, as well as the increased participation by local and international drivers, all lead to a successful four-day event. Such positive results only mean a greater challenge for the Foundation to put on an even better show next year, and to attract more international coverage. Mr. Joe Gerada, Thomas Smith Group Managing Director, and a participant himself, said, “The interest generated, bringing local and international classic car enthusiasts and spectators together, is significant. The Foundation must therefore choose whether to place Historic Malta’s Grand Prix event on an international level, aiming at becoming a part of the international calendar of grand prix events, reaching prestigious races such as the Historic Grand Prix of Monaco, Goodwood or even Mille Miglia.” www.vallettagrandprix.com

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01 Close up of black vintage car 02 Concourse of cars in the show 03 Fiat racing car 04 Cars lined up in the paddock 05 One of the cars taking part in the parade

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Special Feature

Founded in 1790, the firm Johann Fanzoj looks back on a tradition of craftsmanship at the highest level upheld for more than nine generations.

Shunning away from mass production, the firm remains dedicated to the tradition of creating unique hunting weapons by hand. Every year a small number of exclusive guns and rifles leaves Fanzoj´s workshop, handcrafted and customized to perfection, incorporating the customer´s aesthetic preferences and precision requirements. Durrah has an in depth interview with Patrick Fanzoj to find out the intricate details about what goes into crafting the perfect hunting weapon.

Craftsmanship to Perfection

01 Countless tiny dots were engraved by hand around each lightning branch in the inlaid steel 02 The diamonds on the horseshoe are pavé set in white gold

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Can you describe the process you take when crafting an exclusive piece for a customer?

The creation of the client’s personalized Fanzoj masterpiece is an unhurried experience comprised of many stages.

1. Counselling: A dazzling array of different models and more than three hundred rifle and shotgun calibres are available to choose from. In addition to the singlebarrel rifles, shotguns and double rifles, many other combinations such as ‘drillings’ and various multi-barrelled variants are manufactured with the utmost skill in all traditional European styles. Our extensive hunting experience and a fine collection of guns on display in Johann Fanzoj´s showroom, serve as guidance for the final choice.

2. Planning: The production process of the customised Fanzoj gun begins in the gunsmithing workshop. With sophisticated computer software, the craftsmen generate three dimensional construction design drafts of every system and sub-system of the gun to be built. Based on these exact technical calculations, the highly skilled master gunsmiths will then by hand transform wood and steel into a prized creation as unique as its owner featuring the highest artistic quality.

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3. Metalwork: Barrel manufacture starts out using only the highest grade gun steel to forge chopper lump tubes, which are cut and bored/rifled using traditional methods that have been passed down the generations.

Joining the barrels to the action, which is specially designed for each specific gun, requires the utmost precision and skill of internationally renowned master gunsmiths – the result will determine the durability of the gun which is expected to last for generations in perfect condition.

The key technical processes of the gunsmith’s craft are the assembly of the gun, including crafting the lock, the fore-end, the safety, the trigger mechanism, and eventually the carving of the outer shape. Steel is sculpted artfully with fine chisels into sharp lines and graceful arcs lending an individual form to each, which can never be achieved with modern mass production techniques.

4. Woodwork: Together, the gunsmith and the customer choose the stock from a selection of top-notch Circassian (Turkish) walnut burl that is commonly several hundred years old. Circassian walnut is considered the strongest in the world and shows a seemingly infinite variation of colour, contrast and pattern. The stock is custom fitted and sculpted according to the client´s wishes to produce a perfectly balanced hunting weapon that responds fluidly to the shooter´s eyes and hands.

5. Stock Finishing: Time consuming filing and sanding techniques are combined with a secret recipe of traditional oils laboriously applied over many months, bringing to life the wood’s complex depth of colour and grain and simultaneously protecting the wood even from rugged use. This is demonstration of Fanzoj´s unrivalled

attention to detail, which we have become so famous for.

6. Engraving: The engraving is a highlight of aesthetic perception and class. Various techniques and styles from magnificent relief engravings to the finest Boulino, give each hunting gun uniqueness and expression of the customer´s individuality.

7. Regulating: The mechanical function of all internal parts, crucial to absolute reliability, is inspected to give total sequence of operation for trigger pulls, striking, opening, ejecting and closing, always with complete safety. It takes an experienced gunsmith for this important working step.

8. Testing & Finishing: After the high pressure proof firing of the gun at the Austrian Proofhouse in Ferlach, as required by the strict regulations of the Austrian Federal Laws, the firearm is brought back to Fanzoj´s shooting range for further testing and evaluation and then prepared professionally for use in any situation the customer might encounter in the field. All parts are polished inside and outside to a mirror-like finish.

Cocking levers, strikers and sear bars are checked for their hardness and the whole mechanism gets its last finetuning. It is then also that the stock gets its final finish and the checkering is laid on and cut by hand.

What makes the difference between a good hunting weapon and a great hunting weapon?

Both, obviously, should perform well in the field.

The difference is in the philosophy, style, taste, certainly financial means and which emphasis people appoint to the appearance of their material environment. Our items

reflect technical sophistication, a strive for perfection, creativity and a high sense of aesthetics. We prefer to see a Fanzoj gun – beyond its actual field use – as an object of cultural value, an original, and a collectible. It is a demonstration of craftsmanship skills, artistic talent, and is a statement of our company´s dedication and passion for the craft. So making a great hunting weapon means continuing past the point where everybody else stops.

“Striving for perfection” in one’s field is a state of mind, a lifestyle, which like a circle has no beginning and no end. In gun making it starts in the planning process, the wish to go beyond the already existing to explore further. On the way towards execution, high quality materials are sourced and processed into perfect fits.

Finally, in the “regulating” process, the satisfying “clicking sounds” of a nicely regulated mechanical object, the perfect dry, crisp trigger pull, the flawless smooth stock surface, the natural balance when the gun is flung to the shoulder…is what brings satisfaction to the maker, and the customer alike.

What are some of the benefits of maintaining a family business?

In our particular case the craft was passed down for eight generations. I am managing the firm with my sister, and our father is still of great help. We are the first generation, actually, who consciously decided to follow the tradition, and in fact understand ourselves as “bridge builders” between tradition and modern times.

As a major benefit, furthermore, I would name the long-term thinking and planning, the continuity, literally, that forms the basis for any decision. This builds trust to

Our items reflect technical sophistication, a strive for perfection, creativity and a high sense of aesthetics.

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03 The plaited knots in the horse’s mane are intertwined and interlinked with intense complexity 04 Explosive power, beauty and speed are embodied in the white horse 05 The incredibly fine horse image is engraved on a solid 18k white gold plate and has a border of 86 flawless Top Wesselton diamonds, which give it a virtually divine brilliance 06 High-definition Bulino or dot engraving on steel with a fine burin produces almost photographic quality designs

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07 A masterfully executed piece of deep relief work. The horsehair and plaited mane details were artistically modelled in the steel and flow in marvellous detail all over the gun 08 To achieve such realistic effects, techniques are used that have been learned, developed and refined over 30 years 09 Patrick Fanzoj with the handcrafted weapon 10 Exclusively handcrafted oak gun case in black leather on the exterior, with silver grey Alcantara inside, compartments in black alligator, complete with exquisite tools and accessories made of buffalo horn/nickel silver

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the outside world. Our company has existed already for 220 years.

Very important also is the spirit of absolute trust and a great mutual vision that goes beyond differences between all family members.

technology and surface treatments, combined with traditional gun making techniques. Always keeping the explicit goal in mind to build safe, high-quality, durable weapons that satisfy clients´ high sense of aesthetics and wish for individual expression.

Where do you source the materials to craft these guns?

How do you maintain the balance between tradition and innovation?

Apart from the traditional high quality materials that go into our guns, such as Circasion walnut wood from the roots, best quality steels for barrel, action, and inside parts, we are quite open-minded towards new material technology. I myself, being the technician and driving innovation force in our company, am going ways to search and explore and compare our requirements with those in other industries.

We cultivate an active exchange with institutes, universities and the world-renowned Higher Technical school of Weapon Engineering in our hometown Ferlach.

We have found inspiration also in other fields for example Formula One, when searching for the optimum durable surface treatment and friction in our worldwide unique titanium carbine rifles.

Most of the technical solutions and mechanisms in classic hunting weapon making were invented in the 19th century, and we are still today drawing from the innovative spirits of this industrialization period.

The challenge and opportunity today lies in the combination: remember our roots, know the tradition, and combine it with the opportunities of modern highly exact technical engineering! In fact, where I personally see a large field to improve and explore is new material

As many examples in the gun world have shown, it is tempting to introduce machinery and start thinking in terms of quantity, but this is inapplicable to our vision and philosophy. We have consciously chosen to NOT grow in quantity, but in quality, and remain dedicated to further building only a limited number of guns and rifles per year, with emphasis on handwork as the work process evolves. In fact, while the whole world is outsourcing, we have succeeded in the past years to unite all work steps inside the company, and can proudly call ourselves a ‘manufacture’.

We train our young people carefully in the philosophy of classic gun making and have them specialise in a particular task – otherwise you lose the old skills. This is one of the major challenges our branch is facing today, as training people is very time-intense.

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How much time and work goes into creating a single gun?

Since we are talking about “handwork” it is impossible even to calculate or anticipate exactly how much time a single gun will take to finish.

We have been following two directions in fact: 1. Our company is known for building sophisticated,

high-class weapons with high aesthetics, highly functional – with a certain technical edge. A unique positioning within our branch of “classic gun making”.

2. The artistic direction. We represent nowadays the extreme in our field when it comes to the creation of one-of-a-kind items and well-thought-out rifle theme concepts, which tell a story and fascinate worldwide.

Who have been some of your most illustrious customers?

It is in the nature of things that we are privileged to meet very interesting, high profile people worldwide – valuably enriching encounters sometimes. A mutual spirit and a passion for hunting and the outdoors unite our customers. A very well known name in our history was certainly Kaiser Franz Joseph I, the last emperor of Austria.

What is your customer base in the GCC countries like?

A very interesting, high profile clientele…however discretion is an important part of our worldwide reputation!

What is the best way to find out more information or learn about hunting weaponry?

Literature or meeting people who own our rifles.

Please feel welcome to come visit our company and tell others what you saw. www.fanzoj.com

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Experience

In November this year, Italian luxury car manufacturer Maserati celebrated 100 years of success, as it reached its centennial anniversary. As part of the celebrations, the company invited VIP guests from around the globe to test the current lineup of 2015 models. Durrah attended the milestone occasion, in an event reflective of Maserati’s history, present and future.

100 Years of Maserati

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aserati was established on December 1, 1914, in Bologna, Italy by its founder Alfieri Maserati and his brothers. Their passion and talent contributed to the company DNA of innovation, excellence, and challenge, which are reflected in the brand’s claim “The Absolute Opposite of Ordinary”.

Maserati has proved itself true to this claim, as the company recently reached its 100-year anniversary.

Guests from around the world, from South Africa to Japan, gathered in Muscat this November, to celebrate the centenary of one of the worlds most respected and revered luxury car manufactures. VIP guests were invited to test Maserati’s current model line-up of 2015 cars. The selection included all variants of its most recent models, the Maserati Quattroporte and Ghibli, and befitting the occasion, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale and GranCabrio MC Centennial Editions.

Umberto Cini, Managing Director of Maserati Global

Overseas Markets, said, “2014 is an important year for Maserati. We are celebrating our centennial anniversary – an important milestone where we honour our history, but at the same time keep our eyes firmly fixed on the future. Through exciting new products, strong investment into production facilities and network infrastructure as well as by entering new markets, we are on track to achieving our global goal of producing 50,000 Maseratis per annum, while remaining true to what Maserati stands for.”

The company has also just announced its 2014 third quarter results. With 26,428 vehicles delivered to customers in the first three quarters of 2014 and an increase of over 250 per cent compared to last year, Maserati is showing no signs of slowing as a forerunner of the world’s most revered luxury car brands.

In addition to the successful GranTurismo and GranCabrio ranges, the latest generation of Maserati’s flagship sedan, the Quattroporte, and the new sports

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executive sedan, the Ghibli, provide the cornerstones to the brand’s growth strategy. Over the next years Maserati will continue to expand its portfolio by introducing its first-ever model in the SUV segment and the Maserati Alfieri, a two-door coupe, which was first presented at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. A cabrio version of the Alfieri is also planned to arrive in 2018.

The marque’s engine portfolio will include a V6 with up to 520hp, a V8 with over 560hp and new diesel variants with up to 340hp; most of them in combination with either two- or all-wheel drive.

Today, the Maserati headquarters and main production location are situated in Modena, Italy. A second state-of-the-art production location, based on the highest quality standards of the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) concept, was inaugurated in Grugliasco, near Turin in Italy, in 2013. Maserati has been owned by the Italian car giant Fiat S.p.A. since 1993.

Its emblem, the trident, was inspired by the fountain on the Piazza del Nettuno in the centre of its originating city Bologna. It is a symbol that ties together the brothers, their hometown, and the artistry and craftsmanship for which Bologna and Emilia-Romagna are known.

With Maserati’s rich history based on its frankincense trading past and Bedouin values, inspiring culture and beautiful landscapes, Muscat, described as ‘Arabia’s Jewel’, was the perfect location for Maserati’s Centennial Drive. The city of Muscat lies sparkling white, topped with golden minarets in the middle of a maze of pleated mountains reaching down to the Arabian Sea. Guests were able to gain an insight into the Arabic culture in an almost pristine state and experience Oman’s natural beauty on the scenic routes selected for drivers to experience the full potential of the Maserati model range. www.maserati100.com

01 Grancabrio MC Stradale Convertible in buue one and Granturismo MC Stradale in red 02 The Granturismo MC Stradale parked 03 Test driving the Grancabrio MC Stradale Convertible through Oman 04 The Grancabrio MC Stradale Convertible parked

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Its emblem, the trident, was inspired by the fountain on the Piazza del Nettuno in the centre of its originating city Bologna.

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Masterpiece

The Art of Arabic Calligraphy

The finest manifestation of the written script, calligraphy consists of elegant strokes and meticulous proportions that can only be described as a work of art. In this issue of Durrah we delve into the realm of this most esteemed practice, looking at the perspectives of two young calligraphy artists from Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Drawing upon the rich cultural traditions of their Arab descent, Bahraini artist Ammar Al-Mahmood and Saudi artist Yousif Ibrahim each present us with their viewpoints on the art of calligraphy and their passion for it.

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ften described as beauty reflected by script, the art of calligraphy flourished centuries ago. Calligraphy (Greek for “beautiful writing”) as an art form has been honed over the years, reaching an astounding level of artistic precision, with hundreds of styles of inscription. In particular was the highly revered and respected style of monumental inscription and preserving divine scripture. The appreciation accorded to the replication of religious scripts in addition to the aesthetic dynamism it was given, raised Arabic calligraphy to a status of art.

Arabic script calligraphy is the art of beautiful inscription, using the letters of the Arabic alphabet.

It is also known as Islamic calligraphy because of its development to preserve the Holy Qur’an. Exceptional attention to detail is taken in its transcription, due to the sacred nature of the Holy Book.

Bahraini artist Ammar Al-Mahmood and Saudi Arabian artist Yousif Ibrahim have both participated

in numerous exhibitions worldwide and received numerous accolades for their artwork in this field. Ammar’s unique style portrays an exquisite amalgamation of traditional style and the vitality of contemporary Arab culture. His impressive collection of art has been admired both locally and regionally.

Meanwhile, Yousif’s precision and artistry is a dazzling manifestation of the written craft, with more than 35 years of experience that has seen his art appeal to audiences across many nations.

With a focus on the aesthetic qualities of Arabic calligraphy, the two artists share a common passion for this centuries-old art. Treating the Arabic alphabet as a symbol, as a line of poetry, as a work of art, their precision in this fine art stand witness to their gift to create beautiful manifestations from the written word.

Constantly searching for the spirit of the letter, the artists blend and create letters and techniques to form art impressions of a culturally rich, contemporary nature.

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Interview with Ammar Al-Mahmood and Yousif Ibrahim Tell us more about your beginnings in the art of Calligraphy?

Ammar Al-Mahmood: I started with the Al-Ruqa’a style, went on to practice more intricate typeface such as the Diwani style, and then moved on to free style and the elaborate character formation. In my opinion, the Arabic character is a perfection of beauty. Its form, character, the mystery behind it and the depth of its meaning is a magnificent process of history, tradition, mysticism and sanctity. Delicately balanced and intricately formed, all the styles of Arabic Calligraphy whether it is the Thuluth (the King of Script), Naskh, Diwani, Kufic, Persian or Moroccan, are all an ambiance of immeasurable immensity. I have been drawn to calligraphy from a very early age and was encouraged by my family and some of my art teachers to pursue this art and here I am today.

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Yousif Ibrahim: My artistic endeavors began early.

I was enthralled by artistic geniuses of the Renaissance.

I remember my brother Nooreldeen once gave me a painting, which inspired me immensely. The painting was Rembrandt’s masterpiece “The Night Watch” and I was encouraged by my brother and family to pursue the path of fine art and I discovered I had a passion for script and I have continued to refine it over the years.

What influenced your art style and what are the elements that inspire you?

AAM: I adore the details of forming characters and every time I practice calligraphy I feel the immense cohesion between this art and myself. I have constantly studied great works of calligraphic art and I continue to be mesmerized by the constant splendour of its balance, which develops a high sense of appreciation for the visual element and the reflection of style and meaning. I believe that the enlightening nature of Arabic letters is gained from the permanent eternal light, as set forth by the Holy Qur’an, giving the characters strength and durability, a characteristic not found in any other set of characters or elements. I view every letter of the Arabic alphabet as a vast land that has yet to be explored.

YI: Many sources of art can influence an artist’s repertoire and strengthen his or her artistic viewpoint.

For me, the temperament of the Arabic alphabet and its sanctity has long been my inspiration, posing as an intriguing element and always urging me to question and to search for answers. The woman is another source of inspiration for me, with all her ambiguity; her presence and absence provoke and inspire me. However, the Arabic character always remains the catalyst for my creative provocation. Art to me is a dream, a permanent search,

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01 Calligraphy and Arabic lettering on glass, done for a Bahraini company, with the artist Ammar Al-Mahmood.

Image by Ali Alrrifai 02 Yousif’s artwork: When letters come together, beauty arises and each complements the other 03 Yousif Ibrahim 04 Yousif’s artwork: A conversation with Ghada in Andalus, which infused the scent of a glorious history

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05 Ammar’s artwork: A special Arabic Calligraphy of an Arabian horse. A project for HH Shaikh Hamdan bin Rashed Al Nahayan, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance 06 An exclusive piece made for Sheikh Khalifa bin Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, son of Crown Prince of Bahrain, during the Horse racing cup festival that was held in Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club. This piece illustrates HRH name on the shape of an Arabian horse.

07 Yousif’s artwork: The walls have spoken of the rebirth of a golden dawn after a vivid night 08 Ammar’s artwork: Arabic Calligraphy, Beauty and Perfection

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and an obsession for freedom, for beauty, for identity. Art in my world is a symbol, a light, a melody.

How would you describe your art? To which style do you belong as an artist?

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AAM: I belong to the school of Fine Calligraphy, combining characters of various types, while maintaining the sanctity of the aesthetic and the balance of the Arabic character that adds beauty and depth to the paintings or any project I’m working on. I constantly search for a thoughtful understanding of the possibilities of beautiful Arabic script, deep in meaning. In general, any art that does not contain the idea of an elaborate and beautiful outcome quickly loses its lustre. Renewable ideas of depth and beauty continue to progress and develop impressively.

YI: Currently I tend to do more research and in-depth study into the mysteries and the aesthetics of the Arabic character and its extensive connotations, rendering a wonderful angle of beauty and configuration that I did not experience in other directions. The Arabic character, with its majesty, its sanctity, its extensions, and its purity, is a whole other world of mystery and revelations. The characters interact voluntarily and seamlessly with colours, the raw materials and the subject, amounting to the idea of a most sophisticated refined work.

How does technology play a part in your artwork? Do you find that with technology, the calligrapher’s talent has become insignificant in modern age?

AAM: I believe that with the advent of technology, calligraphy has progressed. Since ancient history, the evolution of character style has evolved over several stages, and each stage the artist is the star and more and more focus is on the people who are learning and practice the art. In my career as an Art Director, Calligrapher & Visual Artist in design, working on manuscripts and paintings in every project, I often begin working on paper, weighing the character its format, height and width and then moving on to art software. So I think talent continues to play a pivotal role in the success of the artist.

YI: Some calligraphic art presents itself in a contemporary form without the use of technology.

Generally, through essence of the character you can access a more refined global presentation through contemporary ideas, keeping pace with the acceleration of the rhythm and tone and structural work. The dimensions of abstract calligraphy, give the character a special fourth dimension, dependent on the base and the balance of the printed phrase. Apart from the technical schools of art styles, I continue to experiment,

simulate, and believe in the Arabic character, which is authentic and worthy of analysis, constantly motivating me to delve into its mystic magical sanctity.

What would you say is your most revered artwork?

AAM: There are many projects dear to my heart. I work in stages between contemplating and research, analysis and application, and a specific strategy for the implementation of a phrase. All of which results in a complementary analytical production of the aesthetic appeal.

Two projects that I have worked on and presented to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, and another for His Royal Highness Prince Mit’eb Bin Abdullah Al-Saud, Minister of the National Guard of Saudi Arabia, I am most proud of. Both ideas were based on the configuration of characters. Another project was for a horse stable in Kuwait, I got to design the logo in calligraphic style in the shape of a horse’s head. For every project I begin, I work whole-heartedly by adding meaning, beauty and perfection.

YI: My most valued projects are my completed projects. The bases of my paintings are the elements of knowledge, beauty and amazement, with a clear idea, backed by extensive research and awareness.

Outlining the main idea creates a well-defined formation that becomes well received by the audience.

I meticulously pay attention to every aspect and every detail in addition to the overall picture. Focusing on each character is key to the success of the presentation because the character is the main element in my work. www.ammaralmahmood.net www.yusufibraheem.com

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With a focus on the aesthetic qualities of Arabic calligraphy, the two artists share a common passion for this centuries-old art.

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Appreciating Beauty His work depicts gender, perception, identity, and emotions.

With these delicate portrayals, Moroccan artist Abdel Basit Ben Dahman presents a new angle of images that display the depth of engagement through diverse media. Portraying a holistic approach to various aesthetic themes, Ben Dahman brings forth a question of emotions both actual and metaphorical, remembered and constructed, determining the very nature of human sentiment.

His paintings adorn the walls of many museums worldwide and have been portrayed in several exhibitions around the world including exhibitions in Paris and Spain, in addition to his native Morocco. In this interview, Durrah takes a deeper look into the realm of Oriental Art, as Abdel Basit Ben Dahman takes us on a journey of his creative process, his beginnings and his inspiration.

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Tell us about your beginnings in art.

How did you discover your talent and start presenting your work?

I started my journey at an early age, when I was around 7 years old. Having grown up with my family in quiet surroundings, I had an uncle who was very fond of reading books and magazines and listening to classical music. Many members of my family had noticed my love of art and how I tried to imitate famous artists such as Rembrandt, Moreau, and Da Vinci, and their famous masterpieces. I had the opportunity to see these in my uncle’s glossy magazines, while listening to the rhythms of symphonies of Beethoven, Mozart, and Brahms.

However, the person who really encouraged me was my French mathematics teacher in fourth grade. I recall the day I took one of my paintings to school, which brought all my classmates around my desk expressing admiration and disbelief. My professor entered, saw my painting and asked all the students to return to their seats.

Following the end of the lesson, he asked me to stay on in the classroom. He asked me if I had really painted the picture myself. I said yes. He then said, “You’re really talented, my son. I would advise you to complete your studies in the Fine Arts Division, and I’m sure that you will have great significance in the art world”. He asked me if he could borrow my painting for a few days. He returned it after a week, having mounted it in a beautifully decorated frame. That was my beginning in the actual world of art.

How are you inspired by the surroundings of your city Tangiers?

The city of Tangiers is a city of art and artists. The first artist to set foot in Africa was Eugene Delacroix, one of the most important French Romantic artists of the 19th century. He came through Tangiers, a city known to have inspired many artists and writers from around the world, where some had even settled for good.

Among the most famous artists who were inspired by the beauty of Tangiers were Delacroix and Henri Matisse, who created exquisite masterpieces during their stay in the city. There is no doubt that I have always been inspired by the magic of Tangiers and its scenic beauty, which had an impact on my academic orientation, and 02 my cognitive and cultural knowledge.

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preserved the room in which Matisse had stayed in one of the city’s hotels, where he had painted one of his masterpieces through its windows. I have had the privilege of overseeing the interior design of that room during the renovation of that particular hotel.

Have you had any formal academic training in the field of art?

I studied fine arts, including painting, sketching, sculpture and ceramics. I am a graduate of Ecole de Arts Polytechnique in Casablanca, which enabled me to study the concepts, themes and compositions of art, both academically and practically.

How do you categorise your art style?

And can you tell us more about motifs in your paintings and why you choose to paint the female figure?

05 01 Procession 02 Ritual 03 The artist Abdel Basit Ben Dahman 04 Atmosphere 05 Mystery 06 Stalk 07 Beauty Private collection of Royal Mansour Marakech 08 Wisdom Private collection of Royal Mansour Marakech

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All my critics have agreed that my style and artistic expression is typical of the dissident wave also known in the field of fine art as “La nouvelle figuration” or new realism, which became popular in the early seventies.

My work is inspired by the tales of ‘One Thousand and One Nights’, eternally popular fables, in addition to opera and the cinema. Whenever I start working on a particular form I find these figures replicate and breed in a smooth manner, almost automatically, but a real artist is one who knows when to stop.

As for the female form, there is no doubt that it is a source of inspiration for all artists, but what makes an artist unique is the way this form is employed. I tend to visualise how my painting would be by choosing the most attractive angles most often the beautiful feminine features of the face. However, when the recipient begins to explore my painting, he or she discovers other elements, as I consider my canvas a stage, where I act as the director who always prefers to give the hero attractive facial features.

What are your favourite materials to use in your art?

I have been painting for forty years, it has always been an interesting career, but daunting at the same time. I have practiced with several techniques, including watercolours, inkjets, acrylic, gypsum, clay, sculpture and

Masterpiece

There is no doubt that I have always been inspired by the magic of Tangiers and its scenic beauty.

ceramics. However, I do find myself closer to oil paints.

The possibilities it offers have no boundaries and no end – the more I discover the more it provides me with yet another chance to discover more.

the key to my success over the last 20 years. My painting technique is based on simple readily available materials, but it is the technique of implementation that creates an artist’s originality.

How is your Arab identity reflected in your paintings?

You have participated in a number of exhibitions and had your art portrayed worldwide. What is the message you wish to present to your audience?

I believe that all Arab artists must be proud of their Arab identity, and reflect their instinctive sentiments within their works, or they risk losing their uniqueness amidst this plethora of styles and waves of Western art that increase and clash day after day. Any artist riding these waves will find great difficulty in returning, and I doubt he or she would succeed in returning to the grassroots, even with repeated attempts.

I believe that an Arab artist must hold on to the uniqueness and nativity of the Arab individuality. The concept of art today has a completely different perception, even has a lack of appreciation for an element we previously identified as “beauty”. Mainstream art today celebrates unsung artistic creations, while rejecting fine art. It’s a new reality that I feel quite detached from and I work hard to distance myself from these false artistic and cultural perceptions.

Most of my work focuses on figures and shapes inspired by popular Moroccan stories, and Arabian elements in general, be it facial features or other motifs within my paintings. There was even a time when I used Arabic calligraphy, which increased the elegance and splendour of my work.

Which of your paintings do you consider your favourite and why?

I always consider my latest painting my favourite. I love all my art pieces, one after the other…each has its advantages and characteristics, but I remain steadfast with respect for each creation.

What makes you unique as an artist?

With perseverance, patience and hard work, I believe I have managed with the grace of God, to formulate my own panache, not only at a national or Arab level, but also on a global scale, in the opinion of critics.

I have made enormous sacrifices for art, and have dedicated my whole life to creating fine art; this I believe is

Private collection of Royal Mansour Marakech

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My paintings have been well received worldwide, and I have enjoyed unprecedented success in various art exhibitions and forums, as my creations adorn the walls of many museums. I have seen the public’s response and their admiration for my creations through several public forums. If this should indicate anything, it should be the positive response that my art has achieved. My art has been appreciated by various nationalities despite the differences in language or geography. The language of art remains universal amongst all nations, as the compositions of colousr gradation mixed with various artistic motifs sends the shifting sensory message of humanity, love and harmony.

What advice can you give future artists?

Throughout the 40 years that I have taught fine art, I have repeatedly advised my students to focus on being a humanistic artist. I often advise them not to be shocked by the vehemence of the world.

I always tell them that school produces what I call “future miserables,” because students are taught the principles of virtue, love and morality, but out on the street, they become shell-shocked by widespread immorality. To be persistent, patient, loyal and honest is key to their future success as artists and as individuals.

How do you wish to contribute to the art scene with your paintings, ideas and messages?

Every artist aspires to create work that resonates with critics in particular and with all people in general.

I hope that through my perspective I contribute to improving public artistic tastes both within the Arab world and internationally. www.a-bendahman.com

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Architecture

Discover your favourite brands in an environment of ultimate luxury, as new boutiques from Versace, Michael Kors, Cities, Richard Mille and Lanvin open their doors. Product knowledge and customer service are at the optimum, while brilliant architecture, design and display make for an exceptional shopping experience.

Brilliant Boutiques

Cities, Dubai Renowned design and home accessories boutique Cities, which first opened its doors in 2006 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has just launched its second showroom in The Galleria Mall, Dubai.

With a vision to introduce exceptional, contemporary design and art, and aiming to stray from the classical movement, Cities is a unique store that houses a range of creative lifestyle products. Every piece is handpicked and selected from a variety of International and Middle Eastern talents from around the world. “While we do carry pieces design and interiors lovers will know, we have always tried to ensure that the experience at Cities is both eclectic and unique.” Says Owner Hazem Al Jisr.

Cities offers a distinct platform that can be appreciated by people from all walks of life. For the discerning collector that is searching for exquisite modern furniture and art pieces, to more casual buyers who have an eye for beautiful and original objects. The main idea behind the store is simple: allow the client

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to travel the world, within one space. This concept is highlighted in the logo of Cities, which depicts a stamp-like image of a bird in flight.

Cities’ showroom displays change throughout the year, offering customers the special experience of visiting the whole world through the store’s eyes. The store also aims to become a meeting place for culture and discovery by creating memorable experiences through music, and local and international musicians and DJs perform during events, becoming a part of the harmonious illustration of art.

Already established today as a recognized art and design destination, artisans and renowned designers from around the world, including Alain Solomon (France), Nada Debs (Lebanon), Villa Home (Italy), Bokja (Lebanon), and Menina Design (Portugal), choose Cities as an arena to display and share their authentic creations. Additionally, Cities pays special attention to supporting regional designers from the Middle East and Gulf region in an effort to promote these talents. www.citiesdubai.com

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01 The colourful and eclectic interior 02 The Cities logo depicts a bird in flight, representing travel 03 Featuring contemporary art and design pieces

Every piece is handpicked and selected from a variety of International and Middle Eastern talents from around the world.

04 Displays in the store change seasonally

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05 Exterior of the store in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Image by Marco Cella 06 Interior by architect Jamie Fobert and Donatella Versace.

Image by Marco Cella

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Versace, Milan Versace opened their latest boutique within the central Octagon of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan.

The new boutique is located in a unique historic space, which retains intact the original decorative features miraculously spared by the bombing of the city during the Second World War. Following a meticulous restoration programme – supervised by the Sovrintendenza alle Belle Arti (Department for the Fine Arts) – the friezes, capitals, columns and other decorative elements were returned to pristine condition, bringing a lost masterpiece back to life.

The concept of the boutique was conceived by Donatella Versace and the architect Jamie Fobert, and constitutes an architectonic dialogue between the strong impact of Maison Versace and the delicacy of the late nineteenth century friezes and decorative features.

“The history of Versace meets the future and it has been an honour to preserve and promote the importance of Italian culture, giving back to Milan one

of its treasures,” observes Donatella Versace. “The importance of Milan to Versace is fundamental: it was in this city that the Maison was born in 1978. It means the opening of our boutique in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is hugely important to us”.

Versace’s involvement is not confined to inside its new boutique. It also encompasses restoration work on the original features of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II itself.

Over the coming 13 months, 14 thousand square metres of the Galleria’s total space will be restored on behalf of the city of Milan, its population and the international public, who will be able to admire the beauty of a totally renovated monument 150 years after its construction.

With three magnificent windows overlooking the central Octagon, the new Versace boutique occupies an area of 255 square metres spread over two floors. www.versace.com/en

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Richard Mille, London In September this year, high-end watch brand Richard Mille opened its first UK stand-alone boutique in Mayfair – one of London’s finest addresses. While retaining its distinctive local community feel, Mayfair is one of the city’s most discerning neighbourhoods, internationally renowned for its many designer shops, art galleries and the largest concentration of five star hotels.

The Richard Mille Boutique on Mount Street is the latest addition to a prestigious network of monobrand boutiques previously opened in prime shopping and travel destinations; a sign of the formidable growth Richard Mille has seen since its inception in 2001.

Hidden away from the busier streets, clients can expect a personal shopping experience at 90 Mount Street, appealing to those customers who appreciate a tailor made brand experience. Complete with dedicated seating areas and VIP lounge, the boutique’s interior is beautifully finished with noble materials, exotic woods,

leather and glass to recreate a perfect environment in representing the Richard Mille collection.

The new space covering 80 square meters is arranged on two floors, which provides a comprehensive product presentation. Goods range from sports watches and high performance timepieces, to the newly launched ladies collection, limited editions and unique pieces. ‘’Opening the Boutique in London gives prominence to the brand’s global presence and we are delighted to be part of this distinguished and vibrant area of London,’’ says Richard Mille Europe Middle East and Africa CEO, Peter Harrison. ‘’The London market is very important for Richard Mille for local sales but also within the context of a truly global market. Our London Boutique will offer an additional opportunity to share experiences with the brand in an environment of ultimate luxury.” www.richardmille.com

07 The store is finished with exotic woods, leather and glass 08 Exterior of the store at the prestigious 90 Mount Street address in London 09 Clients can expect a personal and private shopping experience

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While retaining its distinctive local community feel, Mayfair is one of the city’s most discerning neighbourhoods 07

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Architecture 10 Kors’ in-house team designed the store to echo the label’s chic aesthetic 11 The store carries a mix of accessories from the labels collections 12 Zebra print furniture and carpets adorn the store 13 Sleek metal fixtures and mirrored surfaces complete the look

Michael Kors, Beirut Michael Kors, the world-renowned, award-winning designer of luxury accessories and ready-to-wear clothing, was pleased to open its first Michael Kors Lifestyle store in Beirut, Lebanon, in July this year.

The 1,361 square foot store, located in downtown Beirut on Fakhry Bey Street, adds to the brands list of boutiques which are operated, either directly or through licensing partners, in some of the most prestigious cities in the world, including New York, Beverly Hills, Chicago, London, Milan, Paris, Munich, Istanbul, Dubai, Seoul, Tokyo and Hong Kong.

The store carries a mix of accessories from the Michael Kors Collection and MICHAEL Michael Kors labels, as well as watches, jewellery, footwear and eyewear. A selection of the brand’s fragrances for men and women are also available.

Michael Kors’ in-house team designed the store to echo the label’s chic aesthetic, using zebra-print furniture, sleek metal fixtures and mirrored surfaces.

Glossy, large-scale vintage photographs cover the walls, evoking jet set glamour and timeless sophistication.

“Fashion and style have really become global over the past few years,” says the designer. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to open stores in new regions around the world and I think Lebanon, which has always been renowned for its sophistication, is the perfect choice for our newest location.”

Chief Executive Officer John D. Idol says, “it’s always exciting entering a new country. The Middle East is a key piece of our expansion strategy, and Beirut is a shopping destination for many fashion and luxury customers. We’re looking forward to introducing them to our jet set lifestyle.” www.michaelkors.com

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Lanvin, Bahrain

14 Elegant clothing hangs on metal clothing rails 15 Mannequins are dressed in the season’s latest trends

The 125th anniversary celebration of luxury French fashion house Lanvin coincided with the grand opening of the brand’s shop-in-shop boutique in Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain.

Nestled in the heart of Saks, the women’s store took on a festive atmosphere and hosted a lavish event to celebrate its opening for some of Bahrain’s top VIPs. The new boutique was adorned with white roses and orchid arrangements, while ‘garcon de café’ looking waiters served homemade vegetable chips and refreshing juices. Meanwhile, guests playfully posed against a photo wall representing a photograph from Jeanne Lanvin’s archives, encapsulating the essence of Lanvin’s 125 years. The opening gave VIPs the opportunity to peruse the latest styles from the Lanvin collections, and after browsing through this season’s staples, guests enjoyed the rest of the night socializing and maintaining the upbeat band spirit.

Gracefully placed on the metal clothing rails in

the store lie elegant long gowns, while situated on the lacquer wooden shelves are different versions of the new classic bag of the house; the ‘Lanvin Sugar’.

The Lanvin spirit encompassed the ambience of the store, making the shop-in-shop cozy and appealing for customers.

The Lanvin Hiver 2014 women collection exposes charm and femininity with a touch of glamorous darkness.

Drapes, fringed materials and leather-pleated imitations with over-sized silhouettes and fur mark artistic director Alber Elbaz’s creations in dresses and accessories this fall. The season is placed under the auspices of every extreme, from fairytale to witchcraft, simplicity and complexity, powdered halos and kohl blacks.

The opening of Lanvin’s newest shop-in-shop marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the brand’s expansion in the Gulf region. www.lanvin.com

The Lanvin Hiver 2014 women collection exposes charm and femininity with a touch of glamorous darkness.

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ON TIME, EVERY TIME

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Travel

Mediterranean Magic

Megaliths, medieval dungeons and Calypso’s Cave – The Maltese Islands are positively mythic. The narrow meandering streets of their towns and villages lead to the main square, which is invariably dominated by the huge baroque church. As the countryside is dotted with medieval towers, wayside chapels and the oldest known human structures in the world, the Islands have rightly been described as an open-air museum.

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he Maltese archipelago lies virtually at the centre of the Mediterranean, 93 km south of Sicily and 288 km north of Africa. The archipelago consists of three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino with a total population of over 400,000 inhabitants occupying an area of 316 square kilometers.

Malta is the largest island and the cultural, commercial and administrative centre. Gozo is the second largest island and is more rural, characterised by fishing, tourism, crafts and agriculture. Comino, the smallest of the trio, has one hotel and is largely uninhabited. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do.

The Maltese Islands are steeped in culture and heritage. This historic legacy, unique in the Mediterranean, is reflected in the country’s national architecture and collections. There are so many areas of heritage and culture to be explored – the 16th century masterpiece Grandmasters’ Palace, which is now parliament, the “Sacra Infermeria”, which is now a fully equipped conference centre, the St. James Centre for Creativity – a superbly restored fortification where contemporary works of art are exhibited against the original rough-textured walls and rediscovered spaces. With these buildings, past and present blend into an enduring and admirable lesson in the art of living.

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Much of the countryside is dotted with the world’s oldest freestanding structures, so a stroll could prove to be most interesting.

The arts have always played a large role in Maltese culture and continue to do so with cultural events occurring frequently. The National Museum of Fine Arts, housed in an exuberant Rococo building dating from the 1570s, exhibits some magnificent art, ranging from the early Renaissance to modern times. Both established and budding artists are encouraged to display their efforts through publicly supported programs. There is always an exhibition of some kind running.

Theatre and music are also very popular in the Islands. A variety of theatres - including the Valletta’s Manoel Theatre and two opera houses in Victoria (Gozo) – as well as several open-air venues offer wide selection of plays, musicals, operas and concerts.

Due to the undoubtedly great advantage of fair weather, the Maltese Islands lend themselves well to outdoor activities.

Away from the hustle and bustle of village cores, the Islands offer various natural spots to be explored and admired, some left almost untouched by modernity. Much of the countryside is dotted with the world’s oldest freestanding structures, so a stroll could prove to be most interesting.

The first rains after the long, hot summer brings the landscape to life with an astonishing variety of wild flowers and plants. From mid-November until midMay, the Islands are green and lush with fields full of vegetables and waysides carpeted with fennel, clover,

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01 Cittadella View 02 St. George's Basilica 03 Local Feast Atmosphere 04 Zejt iz-Zejtun – an event celebrating the olive-picking season 05 Marsaxlokk Harbour

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wild iris and myrtle.

When it comes to shopping, Malta offers numerous and diverse opportunities and is sure to satisfy the casual buyer as well as the serious shopaholic.

Retail outlets and shopping centres can be found in all the major towns and villages, but markets are at the heart of Maltese village life and an experience not to be missed by visitors. Almost every town and village has its version. For the locals, they are a place for socialising, catching up with neighbours and local news, as much as for buying daily necessities.

Maltese cuisine is the result of a long relationship between the Islanders and the many civilisations who have occupied the Maltese Islands over the centuries.

This marriage of tastes has given Malta an eclectic mix of Mediterranean cooking. Although the restaurant scene is a mix of speciality restaurants, there are many eateries that offer or specialise in local fare, serving their own versions of specialities.

Traditional Maltese food is rustic and based on the seasons. Look out for Lampuki Pie (fish pie), Rabbit Stew, Bragioli (beef olives), Kapunata, (Maltese version of ratatouille), and widow’s soup, which includes a small round of Gbejniet (sheep or goat’s cheese). On most food shop counters, you’ll see Bigilla, a thick pate of broad beans with garlic.

A trip to the Marsaxlokk fish market on Sunday morning will show you just how varied the fish catch is in Maltese waters. When fish is in abundance, you’ll

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find Aljotta (fish soup).

Favourite dessert delicacies are kannoli (tube of crispy, fried pastry filled with ricotta), Sicilian-style, semi-freddo desserts (mix of sponge, ice-cream, candied fruits and cream) and Gelwa tat-Tork (sweet sugary mixture of crushed and whole almonds).

Options for getting around Malta are numerous and varied. Public transport is easy and efficient, while renting a car or a motorcycle provides the freedom to explore the territory at your own pace. Hiring a bicycle or mountain bike is the ecological alternative, and at the same time provides some physical exercise whilst touring the island. Then there are taxis, coaches and minivans, horse-drawn carriages, ferries, pleasure cruises, and you can even hop on a seaplane and get a bird’s eye view.

The options regarding where to stay are just as numerous. There are hotels and aparthotels of varying categories, as well as farmhouses and villas, selfcatering apartments, guesthouses and hostels.

Malta is holidaying as the mood takes you, and with near year-round sun, you can indulge in outdoor living at its best. In just 48 hours and a kilometre or two, you can try a new sport, laze on an island cruise, tour the most important historic sites, and still have time to join in the nightlife. That’s the real magic of a visit to The Maltese Islands. www.visitmalta.com

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Travel and Leisure

The world of hospitality is constantly progressing, as every year a number of new hotels open their doors, offering guests a home away from home. Amongst these are certain locations that stand above the rest, containing a uniquely magical feel and catering to the demands of international guests who identify and expect the best. Whether you are looking for a foodie getaway, hip urban location, luxurious spa or family-friendly activities, Durrah has hand selected some of the best.

Opulent Escapes

Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa, Malta Considered ‘The Grand Lady’ of Corinthia Hotels, the five-star Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa in Malta was the very first Corinthia hotel to open its doors way back in 1968.

This leading five-star hotel sets ‘Craftsmanship of Care’ standards to please and pamper guests who are in the enviable situation of being able to choose and enjoy the best things in life. By adding professionalism and international sophistication to the general friendliness and hospitality of the local Maltese population, the hotel provides an additional and much sought after quality to the daily lives of its many visitors.

While Malta as a tourist destination is promoted as being the heart of the Mediterranean, the centrally located Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa literally lies at the heart of the island, in beautifully landscaped gardens next to the Presidential Palace.

With 155 select rooms and eight superb suites, all with balconies, the hotel has excellent all round facilities in tranquil and homely surrounds, with famed local recognition for its exquisite restaurants. First class friendly service ensures that the needs of guests are constantly met.

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The sweeping flower-bedecked entrance provides a colourful welcoming introduction to a classical-style hotel that was inaugurated 46 years ago by Britain’s Duke of Edinburgh and which today continues to retain a luxurious aura throughout.

Over the years, the Corinthia Palace Hotel has been host to many heads of states, prime ministers and other top dignitaries, as also world celebrities including Greta Garbo, Roger Moore, Rossano Brazzi and Elton John. And from the world of sport Pele, Platini and Bobby Charlton are only a few of the top names that have stayed at the hotel as well as several international football teams.

From the entrance doors of the sparkling hotel foyer, where guests can relax and absorb the spacious surrounds, to the furthest extremes of the extensive four-storey property, the aim is to provide first class service.

The hotel’s main restaurant, the Corinthia Room, has represented the epitome of elegance since its opening way back in 1962, even before the hotel itself was built. The splendid décor and superior standards of service and cuisine bear the hallmark of excellence, making it one of Malta’s favourite restaurants. Another exciting option is Rickshaw restaurant, which has become the most renowned Asian Restaurant on the island. The Indonesian chef delights tastebuds with exquisite dishes from China, Indonesia, India, Malaysia,

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Singapore and Thailand.

The foyer bistro is where one can enjoy a light snack, a plate of pasta or even a steak, in a casual yet sophisticated environment. For a change of venue and a more casual meal, there is the poolside restaurant, where mouth-watering dishes are served outdoors under starlit summer skies. In the evening, the Caprice Lounge provides a relaxed setting for a drink shared among friends to the accompaniment of live music from the resident pianist.

Located within grounds of the luxurious Corinthia Palace Hotel is the Athenaeum Spa, a centre designed for the harmonisation of mind and body. Clients are enveloped in an atmosphere ripe with holistic and natural healing, with a wide range of treatments ranging from classical beauty treatments to holistic treatments offered by Spa specialists. The Spa is set in the midst of the impeccably kept gardens that conceal a set of distinctively styled pools. Facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, a unique sauna garden, Jacuzzi, Turkish steam bath, tennis and squash courts.

Like many things in life, great hotels come and go, but the ‘Grand Lady’ of Corinthia Hotels has not only remained, but also proudly retained its upper class status in Malta for the last 46 years. www.corinthia.com/hotels/malta/palace-hotel-and-spa

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01 Villa Corinthia restaurant 02 Grand exterior of the hotel at night 03 Dining at the Summer Kitchen by the pool 04 Interior of the Rickshaw Restaurant 05 Inside the hotel’s Executive Suite

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Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza 06

If you were to draw concentric circles around Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, you could trace elements of the city’s deep history from present to ancient times.

At the centre is the contemporary 30-storey landmark hotel, located on the banks of the legendary Nile River.

Immediately surrounding the hotel are the vestiges of another era – the grand Belle Époque and Art Deco mansions of Cairo’s Garden City district. Beyond that is the ancient monuments and exquisite artefacts, which have defined Egypt for centuries. From the vantage point of the 366-room Hotel, business and leisure travellers alike have a unique opportunity to experience each phase of the history of Cairo in a contemporary and elegant setting unlike any other in the city.

From the wide canopied driveway leading to the hotel’s main entrance, guests enter the vast lobby area where the sound of piano music welcomes from the connecting Lobby Lounge. Most striking is the fresh, modern décor; silk wall coverings and curtains in warm tones of pale green, taupe and beige adorn the public spaces. Pink marble, light woods and deep pile carpets, specifically designed for the hotel and manufactured locally, create a sense of warmth. Airy open spaces feature modern chandeliers of hand blown glass, and contemporary art including paintings and sculptures from galleries around the world.

Dining is an international affair at Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza. The Hotel has attracted chefs with experience in different parts of the world, offering guests

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the opportunity to indulge in authentic cuisine from Italy, China and the Middle East. Its nine dining venues create a hub of activity in the hotel. These include Zitouni, specialising in Egyptian fare; Spice, offering Cantonese cuisine, as well as Dim Sum; Bella, featuring dishes from Italy; Aqua, a seafood restaurant and Steaks, serving the finest cuts from Australia, the USA and France.

Completing the dining options are The Lobby Lounge, the Pool Bar and Grill, and The Bar, serving lighter dishes and cocktails.

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza is perfectly equipped to host elegant events of all sizes and descriptions, from grand balls and society weddings to conferences and business meetings. The function space within the hotel includes the 1,000 square meter Plaza Ballroom, Nile Ballroom, five conference rooms and five boardrooms, which are part of the Business Centre.

Each space is decorated in the contemporary, elegant style characteristic of the hotel. Beyond the facilities themselves, restaurant quality food and consistent, professional service ensures every event is flawless and memorable.

Whether visiting for business or pleasure, guests of Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza can expect an experience that is both unique and reliable, characterized by the personalized and intuitive service for which Four Seasons is so well known. www.fourseasons.com/caironp/

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06 The vast lobby area, connecting to the Lobby Lounge 07 Large and luxurious rooms with views of the Nile 08 Chinese Cuisine at Shanghainese Cuisine 09 Spacious suite bathroom

Immediately surrounding the hotel are the vestiges of another era – the grand Belle Époque and Art Deco mansions of Cairo’s Garden City district.

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10 CafĂŠ Gray Deluxe Semi-private dining booth with Harbour view 11 Full shot of the Sky Lounge 12 Sky Bridge leading to the Sky Lounge

The Upper House, Hong Kong The Upper House Hong Kong is a small intimate hotel full of surprise. It’s a place of contemporary Oriental luxury, where everyone is treated as an individual and the atmosphere is warm, friendly and informal.

Tucked away from the vibrant streets of Hong Kong, Upper house was designed by architect Andre Fu to create an understated feeling of calm. Natural materials, original sculpture installations and seamlessly proportioned spaces are integrated to create a sophisticated and modern “Asian influenced” residence.

“With an intention to create a small luxury hotel reminiscent of a private residence, I have purposely conjured a sense of tranquillity throughout the design and ambience of the hotel,” says Andre Fu. Far above the hustle and bustle, guest rooms are quiet, relaxing urban retreats. All benefit from abundant natural light and offer wonderful views. The rooms are also very spacious, rising from 68 square meters in the studios to 182 square meters in the two penthouses. Because rooms begin on Level 38 and feature substantial windows, the view is always a welcome distraction. Guests may choose to overlook Victoria Harbour or the scenic backdrop of Hong Kong Island. On Level 6 a secret garden is located, a natural retreat available for guests to visit, meet friends, relax

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and enjoy a drink.

Sanctuaries for body and mind, the bathrooms at Upper House are wonderfully spacious. Features include a generous dressing area and walk-in rain shower. There’s also a freestanding limestone bath, from which to soak up the cityscape beyond.

To reach the hotel’s restaurant and bar, guests cross a spectacular 40-metre high sky bridge. Café Gray Deluxe, a 21st Century Grand Café, offers stunning views of Victoria Harbour. The restaurant marks the return to Hong Kong of celebrated chef Gray Kunz, with his unique style of modern European classics and signature dishes from a lifetime leading the finest kitchens in Europe, Asia and America. With a unique blended drink in hand, the seductive city bar and lounge is the perfect place to watch the sun disappear behind the peaks of Kowloon.

Pacific Place is located beneath the hotel and is one of Hong Kong’s most iconic addresses – it is where the city goes to shop. Traditional and creative luxury brands, two department stores, many fine restaurants and a stadium-seating cinema make Pacific Place the perfect location for The Upper House. www.upperhouse.com

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Urso Hotel & Spa, Madrid Located in the centre of the city, but away from the well-trodden tourist areas, Urso Hotel & Spa is the first 5-star boutique hotel of its kind in Madrid. Set in a 20th century building, Urso retains its neo-classical elegance, whilst bringing a fresh and stylish perspective in its interiors. The hotel’s gloriously imperial architecture blends beautifully into its chic surroundings. Set between the bourgeois neighbourhood of Chamberi, the up-and-coming Tribunal area and the trendy Chueca district, the hotel is surrounded by grand embassy buildings, wealthy residential areas and local, independent boutiques and shops.

A thoughtful restoration by architect and designer Antonio Obrador has turned this 20th century building into an elegant and sophisticated hotel. The architectural features have been preserved to create a deeply comfortable, discreet yet welcoming ambiance.

Bright, fresh and well-balanced interiors allow guests to feel at home. Beautiful rugs scattered over marble floors, oak panelling and fine fabrics covering the walls, and spacious, uncluttered rooms all give Urso the feeling of a patrician private house.

All of the 78 rooms and suites offer king size or twin bed accommodation. The 5 Urso Hotel & Spa Suites on the top floor offer penthouse style vast spaces, with marble bathrooms, a separate living room and a bedroom in soft and light colours. Two of these include their own private terrace for outdoor

celebrations, breakfast under the Spanish sun or alfresco dining.

The Urso Hotel & Spa also brings the first branded luxury hotel spa to Madrid, offering treatments from the prestigious Spanish skincare specialist, Natura Bissé.

The Spa is located within an intimate and discreet hideaway on the lower ground floor.

Natura Bissé is a trendsetter in the world of aesthetics and winner of Best Luxury Spa Brand in 2013. Treatments offer a magical combination of the latest scientific innovation in cosmetics with unadulterated relaxation and remarkable results.

Diamond dust is used to enhance and illuminate the skin while Spanish citric formulas and magnetic massages calm the senses.

There is a small techno gym, four private treatment rooms including a double room, as well as a Turkish steam bath.

The hotel is in a prime location, with Serrano, the finest shopping district in Madrid, just a 10-minute walk away. The Barcelo food market is right on the hotel’s doorstep, showcasing the capital’s gourmet scene and local delicacies. Urso Hotel & Spa is also within walking distance of Madrid’s famous golden triangle of art galleries, El Prado, the Reina Sofia and The ThyssenBornemisza museum. www.hotelurso.com

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13 The green Breakfast Room 14 Chic interior detailing 15 Four poster bed in a Double Room 16 Landscape of the Lounge Area

The hotel’s gloriously imperial architecture blends beautifully into its chic surroundings.

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Travel and Leisure

Paradise Palace Born from the vision of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, the Royal Mansour Marrakech is a spectacular masterpiece, exceeding the demands of today’s discerning traveller. A luxury hotel like no other, the Royal Mansour is a paradise location that knows the meaning of extravagance and is a reflection of the true essence of Morocco.

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hen building Royal Mansour Marrakech, His Highness King Mohammed VI wanted to emulate the radiant Moroccan lifestyle and create a testimony to Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship. His wish was to offer guests unparalleled experiences of wonder and emotion, leaving an indelible imprint in their memories.

The meticulous design of the Royal Mansour authentically replicates the classic forms of the traditional medina, with buildings, squares and gardens interspersed with intricate winding paths.

The hotel covers 3.5 hectares and is completely surrounded by its own 5-metre wall, one side being the existing ancient city wall.

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02 01 The stunning blue patio 02 The Chimney Lounge, modelled on the traditional Moorish architecture of North Africa, Spain and Portugal 03 One of the riads, providing guests with an exquisite retreat 04 Patio with perfect symmetry, reminiscent of the gardens of the Alhambra 05 Hotel Concierge area, with marble paved paths

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The grand entrance gate mirrors all the renowned gates to Morocco’s imperial cities and is a just illustration of the skill of the local artisans, their techniques, and the materials used, such as traditional cedar wood, Cisele metal and sculptured plasterwork. As with the famous Bab Fes Khemis (Thursday Gate) in the city, the Royal Mansour’s great gate evokes a promise of happiness, fortune and prosperity.

Upon entering the great gate, guests will discover the enchanting courtyard – an oasis of peace and calm.

Vividly coloured and sweet scented flora and a multitude of trees and plants are laid out in geometric designs around a beautiful fountain in the centre. The perfect symmetry is reminiscent of the gardens of the Alhambra Palace in Granada and provides guests with an exquisite retreat where they can read quietly or simply lose themselves in the wonder of the environment.

Two stunning restaurants and the magnificent main reception building with its fabulous lobby, bar, lounges and library entice guests forward. Modelled on the traditional Moorish architecture of North Africa, Spain and Portugal, layouts are symmetrical and classical in form. Interiors feature a breath-taking combination of local craftsmanship: shiny smooth ‘tadelakt’ lime plaster, ‘zellige’ ornamental ceramic tile-work, geometrically

carved woods and moulded plasterwork.

Guests are escorted through the main reception to Royal Mansour’s inner medina; an area of exclusivity and privacy inaccessible to non-residents. Precious and mysterious, it is revealed only to its privileged guests who are guided through the labyrinthine marble paved paths and courtyards, surrounded by olive groves and age-old palms to their own private accommodation in the form of a traditional riad (private residence).

A collaboration between different Moroccan artisans has resulted in an exceptional showcase of skills passed from father to son, which expresses the most intricate aspects of decorative culture and an extraordinary vision.

The ground breaking, distinctive and ingenious design is exemplified by an intricate series of underground tunnels to each of the property’s 53 riads, accessed only by staff and thus guaranteeing the utmost privacy and discretion.

The riads span over three floors and comprise of one to four bedrooms. The rooms are arranged around a central open-air courtyard with all ground floors featuring a living room, bar, lobby and an outdoor patio.

The larger riads also have galleries and dining rooms.

The exquisitely proportioned riads feature private roof

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terraces with plunge pools, open fires and some have private hammams and Bedouin tented areas.

Each riad is distinctive in character, individually decorated with intricate handcrafted techniques and finished with the finest fabrics, antiques and custom-made furniture of the highest specification.

An exciting fusion of tradition and modernity, the riads are complete with state of the art technology, including roofs with sensors to automatically close at a drop of rain. Touch panel control through the rooms further enhances the guest experience of the utmost comfort and convenience.

The cuisine of Marrakech is one of the most diverse in the world. In keeping with the exemplary standards throughout Royal Mansour, a tantalising array of restaurants and bars is on offer. Under the supervision of Yannick AllĂŠno, the famous Michelin three-star Parisian chef, there are two gastronomic restaurants: La Grande Table Marocaine offering the very best traditional Moroccan cuisine with an innovative contemporary twist;

and La Grande Table Francaise, showcasing the finest in French gourmet cuisine. The lobby area houses La Table, a beautiful loggia and al fresco restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a number of private dining room and lounge options. Guests may also dine in the privacy of their riads, either in the cool interior or on the roof terrace.

An impressive selection of uniquely decorated and atmospheric bars and lounges cater to all tastes and occasions. Le salon de thĂŠ, located within the Spa is open throughout the day offering a healthy and tranquil light meal or drink. Within the lobby building itself you have the choice of: Le Bar, a stunning pink gold leaf adorned cocktail bar and lounge; Le Piano Bar, a sleek sophisticated lounge offering relaxed live piano music, overlooking the Andalusian gardens; and Le Bar a CigarĂŠ, offering an extensive selection of vintage beverages, famous cigars and the perfect relaxation lounge. www.royalmansour.com

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The exquisitely proportioned riads feature private roof terraces with plunge pools, open fires and some have private hammams and Bedouin tented areas.

06 One of the private terraces at dusk, with a Bedouin tent

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Spas

01 The spas leading beauty brands are elegantly on display 02 The breathtaking white wrought iron atrium

The Spa, Royal Mansour Marrakech On arrival, guests at the Royal Mansour Spa begin their spiritual spa journey, as heat gives way to a comfortable coolness within the vast area. The purity of white is punctuated by colourful flora, and serenity is interrupted only by the tune of a bird’s song.

At the heart of the building is an impressive white wrought iron atrium, evoking an elaborate birds’ cage. It is in the cool alcoves of this magnificent structure where spa guests receive their initial consultation with one of the spa experts. This enables The Royal Mansour Spa to create a personalised programme designed to meet the guests’ individual needs and to help achieve their health goals. Experts also offer guidance in the areas of nutrition, exercise, stress management and general wellbeing. If preferred, a private area can be reserved where the guests can review the extensive programme of facilities and treatments whilst feasting on nutritious delights prepared by the hotel’s talented chefs.

The spa is based on traditional Moroccan rituals with the Hammams being the pièces de resistances, but also offers the latest in contemporary spa technology and treatments. The spa uses leading

beauty brands Maroc Maroc, Dr Hauschka and Sisley for facials and body treatments with Chanel facials and make up also available. Leonor Greyl products are used in the hairdressing salon.

Spanning three floors, the first floor, flooded with natural light is where massages, facials, water and enveloping treatments are administered. For additional privacy, there are spa suites where private treatments and exercise take place.

The ground floor features two Hammams, a hairdressing salon with its private manicure and pedicure suites, a Watsu bath area, ‘Art of Living’ working, boutique shop and relaxation area. Le salon de thé provides a haven where guests can savour a quiet moment to read and enjoy the selection of healthy dishes, herbal teas and fruit juices. An impressive indoor swimming pool in its own orangerystyle glazed pavilion completes the ground floor, whilst the lower floor is an area dedicated to an impressive range of state-of-the-art fitness equipment. www.royalmansour.com/#/en/le-spa

Leave behind the bustle of the city and enter into a world of tranquillity and peace, with three of the world’s most prestigious spas brought to you by Durrah. Daily worries will melt away as you embark on treatments that stimulate the senses, encourage relaxation, and offer a unique spa experience in these sanctuaries of satisfaction.

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Spas 03 The inviting entrance to the Namm Spa 04 Lounge area of the spa 05 Namm Spa treatment room

Namm Spa, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Namm, pronounced “narm”, is a Thai word that signifies “water” – the most essential element of life that offers healing applications both inside and out. It is this concept of healing through water that inspired the creation of Namm Spa, where the skilful touch of well-trained therapists erase the stress of modern life and rejuvenate the body and senses.

The authentic Thai therapies and herbal medicines at Namm Spa are precious legacies, which were created by doctors who served the Thai Royal Family for over 2000 years and passed down through the generations. Traditional Thai therapy believes that illness stems from energy imbalance; when energy pathways are blocked, it results in sickness.

The Signature Thai Heritage Therapy program combines the essence of traditional Thai therapy to bring body and mind into equilibrium. The program starts with Hermit’s Body Twist which is a body exercise based on stretching breathing. This is followed by an aromatherapy massage using the exclusive aromatic oil recipe, which is blended according to Thai apothecary formula and its effectiveness on muscle tension and detoxification. The therapy ends with a

pressure-point massage all over the body, leaving body and mind in perfect balance.

The Ultimate Anne Semonin Journey will leave you with the feeling of total wellbeing and harmony from the crown of your head to the tips of your toes. The ritual begins by bathing in nourishing oil infused with Tiare flowers that naturally soothe and condition. Skin is polished to perfection with sea salts rich in trace elements and minerals, relieving stress and revealing a youthful glow. The body is then enveloped in pink kaolin clay that will comfort and nourish dehydrated skin, followed by a full body massage to ease away any stress. The journey is concluded with a superbly brightening facial, using unique cryotherapy ice cubes to contour and firm the skin.

The mission at Namm Spa is to relax, revitalize and enhance wellbeing. Each specialized treatment is designed to pamper the senses and redefine inner balance and outer beauty. The serene minimalism of the ambiance, the intoxicating aromas, and the genuinely caring therapists, will make every visit truly memorable. www.dusit.com/dusitthani/abudhabi/facilities-en.html

Traditional Thai therapy believes that illness stems from energy imbalance; when energy pathways are blocked, it results in sickness.

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Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Nile Plaza, Cairo Step into an oasis of calm at the spa at the Four Seasons Hotel Nile Plaza, and leave the frantic pace of Cairo behind. The spa boasts a level of personalised attention that is among the best in the city.

Located on the hotel’s fifth floor, Cairo’s largest Spa and Wellness Centre contains 14 treatment rooms and leads to an extensive rooftop terrace overlooking the Nile. Amidst the lush greenery and swaying palm trees are four heated swimming pools, including a dedicated children’s pool. Seventeen poolside cabanas with private, shaded seating areas and individual showers and bathrooms provide an intimate place to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Refreshments, light meals and grilled specialties are served throughout the day at the Pool Bar and Grill.

Treat yourself to one of the oldest forms of health care with one of the spa’s specialized massages – true antidote for stress, the treatments help strengthen the immune system and restore balance in the body.

Detoxifying body treatments leave the skin feeling refreshed and renewed, including specials such as an Avocado, Moroccan or Cleopatra Milk Body Wrap, AfterSun Aloe Vera Cooling Mask, Four Seasons Nature Scrub, Egyptian Herbal Scrub, Brown Sugar Scrub or Sea Salt Oil Scrub.

Additionally, facial treatments are custom designed by skilled therapists to suit personal needs, and provide a youthful, healthy look. The Egyptian Purifying Ritual Skin deeply purifies skin with a mineral scrub from the Red Sea and an Egyptian clay mask. White lotus and lemongrass serum then work to rebalance skin. A pure sensation of softness is achieved by the application of neroli and white lotus moisturizing cream. Meanwhile, the Oxygenating Care treatment improves circulation, activates the elimination of toxins, and increases the body’s absorption of nutritive elements. This facial includes drainage of lymphatic nodes, a detoxifying massage with amethyst stones, and an oxygenating peel-off mask, for radiant and fresh looking skin.

An ideal way to unwind after a day of touring the pyramids or a long business conference, the spa at the Four Seasons Hotel Nile Plaza is the perfect place to forget your cares and relax completely. www.fourseasons.com/caironp/spa

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06 The spa lounge is an oasis of calm 07 Views from the spa, located on the fifth floor 08 Refreshments provided for guests in between treatments 09 One of the spa’s four heated swimming pools

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Dining

Tosca Ritz Carlton Hong Kong

Flavour Indulgence

Guests can relive the passion and enchantment of one the world’s most beloved operas through the inspired cuisine of Tosca. High ceilings, stately fountains and majestic chandeliers lend a Romanesque feeling to the stylish dining destination. The innovative Italian menu features improved favourites and thrilling interpretations of the region’s notable cuisine, and an open kitchen allows guests an even more theatrical dining experience. The elegant restaurant also offers private dining experiences for special celebrations, entertaining corporate clients or other intimate occasions, with two semi-private rooms as well as a comfortable private room for smaller parties.

Having over 30 years of experience in the culinary industry around the globe, Tosca is run by Chef Lavarra, one of the top Italian chefs specializing in Italian fine dining. He has gained national recognition for his creative and innovative style, earning title as “one of the best chefs in the world” and in 2002 he was awarded the ultimate culinary accolade, his first Michelin star, followed by second in 2004.

Brought together by the brightest chefs and the best mix of international cuisines, these five star dining destinations are equipped to excite the palates of guests across the globe. Each restaurant offers the ultimate fine dining experience – from a stylish and elegant atmosphere, to a sumptuous selection of unique menu items.

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Having over 30 years of experience in the culinary industry around the globe, Tosca is run by Chef Lavarra, one of the top Italian chefs specializing in Italian fine dining.

Diners can expect an enticing creative Italian menu, which takes classical ingredients and present them in contemporary and innovative ways.

Chef Lavarra says, “I am truly excited to be part of this dynamic, where I introduce guests to creative Italian food that they have never experienced before. My signature dishes, to name a few, include Sea Tiramisu with Mediterranean Red Prawn Carpaccio, Cereal Crumble, Roasted Scallop and Caviar; Spaghetti Alla Chitarra with Basil Chlorophyll, Baby Squid Wrapped in Swordfish Paper; and Mediterranean Tuna with White Eggplant Puree, Potato Souffle and Caper Sauce.” www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/HongKong/ Dining/tosca

01 View of Tosca restaurant from above at night 02 Buffalo mozzarella golden sphere, fennel seed bread crumble, with crispy anchovies 03 Tosca during the day 04 Tosca private dining room 05 Sea Tiramisù with Mediterranean red prawn carpaccio, roasted scallop and caviar

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Dining

Rivea, Bulgari London Inspired by the vibrant food markets in Italy and Provence, Rivea London offers French and Italian cuisine in a chic, convivial and relaxed setting. The menu of small plates incorporates the classic flavours and vivid colours of the Riviera, with a focus on simple flavours and the best ingredients mainly sourced within the British Isles.

Head Chef Damien Leroux has spent more than ten years under the tutelage of Alain Ducasse in Provence and Monaco, sharing his passion for ‘La Cuisine du Soleil’. Ducasse and Leroux have enlisted the help of artisans and specialist famers to create a menu of Riviera-style dishes using the best of both British and Mediterranean produce, bringing an expression of this essential cuisine. Some of the exquisite menu items include blue lobster with purple artichokes from Provence, roast duckling with figs, and a saddle of Scottish lamb with pissaladière onions.

Renowned Italian architect and designers Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners have created a light, 06 06 Herb pasta, green asparagus and goat’s curd. Image by Pierre Monetta 07 Warm octopus and potato salad. Image by Pierre Monetta 08 The chic and relaxed restaurant interior. Image by Pierre Monetta 09 Conceived by Italian architect and designers Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners.

Image by Pierre Monetta

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airy and glamorous ambience within the restaurant. The room has sea-blue and white pearlescent themes, which directly reference the Riviera. The adjacent private dining room seats up to 12 guests and provides an intimate space for a bespoke experience.

The spirit at Rivea is relaxed and welcoming.

Informal yet impeccable service is overseen by experienced Restaurant Director Nicolas Jaouen, with staff echoing the restaurant’s casual and chic nature, wearing canvas sneakers.

“I am delighted to bring Rivea to a culinary scene as vibrant as London,” says culinary legend Alain Ducasse of the new opening. “The restaurant encompasses the essence of my cuisine, interpreted by my passionate young Chef Damien and inspired by the many artisan producers we have met in the Riviera. Damien’s passion for vegetables shines through in the dishes, where he focuses on the diversity of their flavours and textures.” rivealondon.com 08

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Head Chef Damien Leroux has spent more than ten years under the tutelage of Alain Ducasse in Provence and Monaco, sharing his passion for ‘La Cuisine du Soleil’.

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Dining 10 Eggs Florentine 11 Roasted Vegetables and Buffalo Mozzarella 12 The intimate interior seats only 28 guests

Guests are greeted warmly on arrival and the friendly, knowledgeable, international service team is at service at every moment.

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The Oval Restaurant, The Wellesley London A small and intimate dining experience, the Oval Restaurant located at The Wellesley Hotel in London has exclusive seating for just 28 guests. The restaurant evokes images of those Italian scenes where food is revered as much as family, where people linger over every mouthful, enjoying the flavours, the conversation and the company.

In this cosy setting, homage is paid to the finest traditions of Italian cuisine. Simple and classic ingredients are beautifully prepared into authentic dishes with the finest presentation. Separate menus are provided for breakfast, afternoon tea, a la carte, dessert, and a special tasting menu. Menu items include favourites such as Rack of lamb with dark chocolate sauce, mint artichokes and caramelised shallots, or Dover sole roulade with wild broccoli and lime foam.

The restaurant’s impeccable service makes the dining experience one to savour. Guests are greeted warmly on arrival and the friendly, knowledgeable, international service team is at service at every moment. For those who opt to dine in one of the other areas, the menu’s delicious Italian dishes are available throughout the hotel including the Jazz Lounge, which offers live music performances by West End Artists accompanied by a fine dining experience. Decadent, elegant, grandiose and undeniably beautiful, The Oval Restaurant at The Wellesley has an abundance of not-so-subtle style and some downright fantastic Italian food, making a classy dining experience to truly relish. www.thewellesley.co.uk/oval-restaurant.html

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13 The restaurant interior offers an authentic Thai experience 14 Chicken and cashew nuts dish

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The outlet takes diners on an authentic culinary journey within a unique Asian setting, adorned with Thai design elements and a live show kitchen.

Benjarong, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

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Showcasing the authentic Thai experience at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is its signature restaurant, Benjarong, featuring Royal Thai cuisine. The outlet takes diners on an authentic culinary journey within a unique Asian setting, adorned with Thai design elements and a live show kitchen. A private dining area for 10 people and a bar lounge seating 16 in an atmosphere that aims to be sophisticated yet comfortable appeal to those seeking a fine dining experience.

“What we offer at Benjarong is not only a Royal Thai treat but a genuine experience. From its traditional looks using royal colours of gold, yellow and red, Benjarong is a place you can really enjoy a special night out. As part of our unique offering at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, we have an expert chef from Bangkok who presents

his individual creations and unique trademark dishes together with signature cuisine available at Benjarong restaurants around the globe,” says Kamal Chaoui, General Manager at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi.

“With such a wide variety of dining outlets throughout the hotel, we are confident that Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi will provide not only our guests, but also the many residents of the UAE’s capital, with what will become the premium destination for dining and events,” added Chaoui.

“We have assembled an amazing team, not just in the food and beverage department, but across the hotel who are committed to setting the benchmark for delivering exceptional service within the region.” www.dusit.com/dusitthani/abudhabi/dining-en.html

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Bon AppĂŠtit

Gourmet Gathering

Celebrating the passionate culture and cuisine of Spain, La Vinoteca Barcelona became an instant hit when it opened its doors in Bahrain earlier this year. With more than 20 years dedicated to gastronomy, Chef Joan Gomez heads the kitchen, with experience working alongside Michelin star chefs around the world, and studying at one of the most prestigious cooking schools in Spain. Chef Gomez states his key focus is making people happy through being honest about food, and trusting to give a small piece of his heart in anything he cooks. The passionate Chef has shared with Durrah four tapas recipes from the revered restaurant, perfect for sharing and offering a little taste of Spain.

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Beef Flamenquin stuffed with roast red bell peppers, “Cecina” and “Cabrales” sauce Ingredients Serves 4 • 560g beef filet • 120g “Cecina” • 400g red bell peppers • 80g “Cabrales” • 50g butter • 150ml double cream • 400g Onion • 100g Black olives • 90g Pistachios • Bread crumbs • Pasteurised egg • Flour • Olive oil Method for the Garnish 1. Julienne the onion and roast with butter for 12 hours, adding water and mixing to prevent burning.

Remove when the onion is brown and soft and reserve for later.

2. Dehydrate the sliced black olives at 80 degrees overnight.

3. Dry the pistachios at 60 degrees for 20 hours, to retain the colour. Blend into a bright green powder (you may need to add some bread crumbs).

4. Mix both powders (you may need to add some bread crumbs).

Method for the Flamenquin 1. Cut the beef filet into thin slices, place the slices between two sheets of cling film and flatten with a meat hammer until even and thin.

2. Oven-roast the red bell peppers until completely black and soft. Once cold, remove the blackened skin and seeds and slice the flesh into stripes.

3. Slice the Cecina thinly.

4. In the middle of each flattened meat slice allocate three slices of Cecina, six stripes of red pepper and roll into a cylinder. Pass it through flour, egg and breadcrumbs.

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Quail in a light brine, served with “escalivada” roll and root chips Ingredients for the quail in brine Serves 4 • 12 quail legs • 500ml olive oil • 200ml sherry vinegar • 1 whole garlic • 300g carrots • 300g onion • 3 bay leaves • Whole black peppercorns • Cloves • 20g fresh ginger • Peel of 1 lemon Ingredients For the escalivada roll • 4 red peppers • 2 aubergines • 1 whole onion • 3 courgettes • Aluminium foil • 9g Jellan • 4g agar-agar Ingredients For the chips • 100g violet potato • 100g sweet potato • 100g parsnip • Sunflower oil • Sea salt

Method for the escalivada roll 1. Cover the onion and the courgette with aluminium foil and roast in the oven until soft. Peel the onion and reserve.

2. Oven-roast the peppers until completely black and soft, when cooled peel and de-seed.s.

3. Repeat the process with the aubergine. Chop everything except the courgette, season with olive oil and salt and keep in the fridge for at least two hours.

4. Blend the courgette with the veg stock and pass through a thin strainer. Add the Jellan and the agaragar and mix.

5. Heat the mixture to 80°C, place in a flat tray and leave it to cool down until hard enough to do the roll.

6. Place the chopped vegetables in the middle of the sheet and roll it with the help of the cling film.

Method for the quail 1. Carefully clean the quail legs. Put the rest of the other ingredients together in a pot and simmer for half an hour.

2. Reduce the heat then add the quail legs, slow poach the quail inside the mixture till they become soft. Once soft strain the quail legs and the brine separately.

Method for the chips 1. Heat the sunflower oil to 160°C, slice the roots very thin and deep-fry until crispy.

Finishing and plating 1. Cut the roll into slices and alternatively allocate the quail legs. Season with the brine and sea salt, finish with the chips.

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Bon AppĂŠtit

Black and red quinoa salad, with goat cheese and apple dressing Ingredients for the quinoa Serves 4 • 150g white quinoa • 150g black quinoa • Pinch of turmeric • Pinch of paprika • Olive oil • Sea salt Ingredients for the cheese • 150g goat cheese • 30g black olive puree • 20g rosemary • Extra virgin olive oil Ingredients for the tomato jam • 300g ripe tomato • 120g sugar • Lemon juice Ingredients for the garnish • 400g passion fruit puree • 4 sheets of jelly • 100g “kikos” (salted corn) Ingredients for the salad • 400g fresh spinach • Black olive powder • Sea salt • Olive oil • Apple vinegar • Pomegranate • Orange segments

Method for the cheese 1. Roll the cheese into balls and marinate in a mixture made with extra virgin olive oil, black olive puree and rosemary, for at least 2 hours.

Method for the tomato jam 1. Roughly cut the tomatoes and place in a pot. Add the sugar and cook for 3 hours. Add some lemon juice, blend and leave to cool down.

Method for the quinoa 1. Soak the quinoa in large bowl with cold water for 15 minutes then strain.

2. Put the quinoa in a pot and cover with water (1/1) and add the spices (turmeric, paprika and salt). Turn to medium heat and when the quinoa is simmering, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low and cook for 30 minutes. Once all water is absorbed, keep covered for 5 minutes then remove from the pot and put aside.

3. For the black quinoa, repeat the process but adding more water 1/1.25 and cook for 35 minutes.

4. Blend 50g of goat cheese with some olive oil, to a thick sauce. Mix the quinoa grains and add some cheese sauce, mix gently and put aside.

Method for the garnish 1. Heat the passion fruit puree, melt the gelatin in the microwave with some water and add. Place in a flat tray and leave to set in the fridge.

2. Blend the “kikos” cut some cubes of the jelly and pass through the powder.

Finishing and plating 1. Wash and rinse the spinach, place it in a bowl and season with sea salt, black olive powder, olive oil and apple vinegar. Arrange on the plate.

2. Use the rest of the cheese sauce to dress the plate, on top of that allocate the passion fruit jelly cubes.

Add some dots of tomato jam and finish with the goat cheese balls.

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Bon Appétit

Roast pumpkin tatin with pumpkin ice cream and ginger Ingredients for the ice cream • 200ml milk • 200ml whipping cream • 100g sugar • 100g pumpkin puree • 1/4 stick vanilla • 4 egg yolks Ingredients for the tart • 200g pumpkin (butternut squash) • 100g brown sugar • 50g butter • 4 rounds of 10cm readymade puff pastry Ingredients for the ginger gelee • 50g fresh ginger • 200ml water • 100g sugar • 2g Lota Method for the ice cream 1. Mix the whipping cream and milk together and leave it to boil.

2. Separately whisk the egg yolks with the sugar and add carefully the hot milk mixture. Heat the mixture to 82°C. 3. Cool down and freeze overnight, then blend in Paco Jet ice cream machine.

Method for the gelee 1. Boil the ginger, water and sugar. Blend and strain then add the Lota, boil again and leave to set.

2. Cut into cubes and roll in sugar then put aside.

Method for the tart 1. Thinly slice the pumpkin. In a 12cm non-stick pan melt the butter, add the sugar and fry the pumpkin on both sides.

2. Cover with the round of puff pastry, add some brown sugar on top and cook in the oven for 20min at 180°C. Finishing and plating 1. Remove the tart from the oven and plate on a slate.

Finish with a scoop of the pumpkin ice cream and the cubes of ginger gelee. www.facebook.com/VinotecaBH

You’ve arrived. Before you’ve even left.

The new Flying Spur V8.

Success is its own destination. Exquisitely crafted, technologically advanced, with the power to propel you to 183 mph and 60mph in just 4.8 seconds.

Flying Spur V8 fuel consumption – EU Drive Cycle* in mpg (l/100 km): Urban 18.4 (15.4); Extra Urban 36.7 (7.7); Combined 26.8 (10.6). CO2 Emissions 246 g/km.

EPA Drive Cycle* in USmpg: City driving 15.0; Highway driving 24.0; Combined 18.0.

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Experience

No Compromises McLaren Automotive returned to the International Geneva Motor Show this year with its fastest, most engaging, best equipped and most beautiful series-production supercar yet. With 50 years experience competing in the highest level of motorsport, the British manufacturer of luxury, high-performance sports cars introduces the revolutionary 650S.

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vailable as a fixed-head Coupé or as a Spider, with a retractable folding hard top, the new McLaren 650S promises to redefine the high performance supercar segment, and has been designed and developed to provide the ultimate in driver engagement on the road and on the race track.

The 650S badge designation refers to the power output – 641 bhp – of the unique British-built McLaren M838T twin turbo V8 engine. ‘S’ stands for ‘Sport’, underlining the focus and developments made to handling, transmission, drivability and engagement. The maximum power figure ensures the best power-toweight ratio in its class, at 493 bhp per tonne.

The design of the vehicle is inspired by the McLaren P1™, showcasing a new family design language for the brand. More importantly, the new look follows the McLaren design ethos of ‘form follows function’, with the front bumper providing a dramatic, yet clean,

appearance while the integrated front splitter contributes to increased levels of downforce. This offers a greater level of steering feeling and confidence to the driver on turn-in, while also adding to the agility and handling balance. Unique door blades behind the front wheels direct air from the trailing edges of the front splitter, further benefiting front-end grip and vehicle balance.

Distinctive sculpted side intakes direct air into the efficiently packaged radiators to cool the unique 3.8-litre twin-turbo M838T V8 engine. Maximum torque produced is 678Nm. “McLaren is an engineering led company, and we’re proud of that,” says McLaren Automotive CEO Mike Flewitt. “The new design gives important engineering and driver benefits, yet it’s not just about improving the numbers. The McLaren 650S also dials up the design drama and driving excitement.”

Key to the McLaren 650S is the fact that the

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everyday usability and capabilities expected of any McLaren model are not compromised. Despite the power and performance focus, the McLaren 650S boasts an extensive specification list, with an optimised powertrain, braking and suspension systems, as well as a refined and luxuriously equipped cabin. Yet, even with these extra features, the McLaren 650S weighs just 1330kg – 6kg lighter than the 12C. Performance is class leading for both the Coupé and Spider models; 0 to 100km/h acceleration takes only 3 seconds, 0 to 200km/h takes just 8.4 seconds for the Coupé and 8.6 for the Spider. Maximum speeds reach 333km/h for the Coupé and 329km/h for the Spider.

Mike Flewitt says, “The McLaren 650S is a multipurpose, high performance sports car, and is thrilling to drive. No other series-production sports car on sale today offers such a breadth of capabilities. Maximum driver appeal, and driver engagement, is at the heart of this car, as it is with all McLarens. Yet unlike some rivals, the McLaren 650S is not a stripped-out racer. It is faster than many other ultra-sports car rivals, yet there is no compromise in luxury. It has all the refinement and comfort you would expect from McLaren, and all the power and excitement as well. Many McLaren owners do use their cars every day, and frequently drive hard on track days. The McLaren 650S is designed for both. It

really is a no compromise option.”

The ‘no compromise’ McLaren 650S is also one of the most efficient models in class, which is a testament to McLaren for their continued improvement and classleading efficiency.

“Everything we’ve learnt from the McLaren P1™ and the 12C has gone into the McLaren 650S. The result is a car that’s faster, more fun and thrilling to drive, yet also more comfortable, luxurious and even easier to enjoy, day-to-day,” says Flewitt. “At McLaren, we are a fast moving company, continually striving for improvements and technical advantages. We always want to push, to improve. That’s our Formula 1 heritage and mentality shining through. Always seeking to innovate, to be the class-leaders, to bring new technologies to market as fast as possible.”

The McLaren 650S uses a unique version of the award-winning 3.8-litre, twin turbo V8 M838T engine.

New pistons and cylinder heads provide a boost in engine power and torque, and these are combined with new exhaust valves and revised cam timing. Further advances have been made to the transmission software to allow faster and crisper gearshifts. Adding to the aural drama in ‘Sport’ mode is ‘cylinder cut’ technology, which produces an exhaust flare on upshifts. This gives a distinctive engine note, as exhaust sound is amplified, without any

01 The McLaren 650S uses a unique version of the awardwinning 3.8-litre, twin turbo V8 M838T engine.

02 The design of the vehicle is inspired by the McLaren P1™ 03 The dramatic exterior styling includes full LED headlamps 04 Redesigned dampers and springs are coupled with sharper steering

Maximum speeds reach 333km/h for the Coupé and 329km/h for the Spider.

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loss in performance.

Further optimisation has been made to the McLarendeveloped clutch control software, which improves smoothness, predictability and refinement, particularly at low speed, through the seven speed dual clutch gearbox.

New damper mounts offer improved levels of ride comfort and minimise any noise, vibration and harshness carried through into the cabin, while redesigned dampers and springs are coupled with sharper steering. A new lightweight forged ‘650S’ alloy wheel design is fitted as standard on the McLaren 650S, and offers a 6kg weight saving over the standard cast wheel design on the 12C. Finished in silver, and available with an optional stealth or diamond cut finish, the unique design is shod with Pirelli P Zero™ Corsa tyres to offer optimised roadholding, handling and driver feedback – the bespoke ‘MC1’ branded tyres have been developed alongside the McLaren 650S by McLaren technology partner Pirelli, and offer strong performance in normal road conditions and on track.

The dramatic exterior styling includes full LED headlamps derived from the McLaren P1™. These provide illumination of the road ahead, and echo the signature McLaren ‘speed marque’ logo in the design. The bonnet is finished with a new McLaren badge, inspired by the badge fitted to the iconic McLaren F1. The rear of the McLaren

650S has been designed to optimise aerodynamics, with a 12C GT3-inspired three-piece bumper.

As standard, the interior is trimmed in lightweight Alcantara, while full leather is available. These materials extend to include the full headlining, while contrast colour stitching is also available. Fixed-back carbon racing seats, based on the lightweight design found in the McLaren P1™, offer superb levels of upper and lower body support, improve driver engagement, and save 15kg.

The McLaren 650S is designed to be the best and most engaging driver’s car in its class, yet it is not a stripped out road racer. Ride comfort and refinement are to executive saloon standards. The McLaren 650S models are equipped with IRIS satellite navigation with Bluetooth telephony, DAB digital radio in European markets (SIRIUS satellite radio in North America), wireless tethering, audio streaming and voice control as standard, while also offering enhanced levels of optional specification than previously offered. Options include fixed-back carbon racing seats, based on the lightweight design found in the McLaren P1™, an electric steering column adjustment assisting ingress and egress, a rear parking camera and extended carbon fibre throughout the interior. www.mclarenautomotive.com

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Automotive

Substance and Style Redefining the ultra-luxury driving experience, Durrah presents the new Bentley Mulsanne Speed and the Infiniti QX60. These two highly exclusive vehicles build on the success of previous models, raising the bar higher than ever before with technology, speed and endurance, shaping the future of luxury performance.

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01 The Mulsanne speed goes from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.9 seconds 02 The cabin is a contemporary reinterpretation of the interior of the Bentley flagship 03 A unique colour split creates a modern two-tone feel 04 Dark tint accents to the exterior hint at the speed’s powerful character

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Bentley Mulsanne Speed Bentley redefines the fastest luxury driving experience in the world, with a new flagship model that combines extravagance with performance. The new Mulsanne Speed is tailored for the driver, with 530 bhp/395 kW, 1,100 Nm and selectable sports suspension and steering on demand. The reengineered powertrain, featuring Bentley’s mighty 63/4-litre twin-turbo V8, propels the Mulsanne Speed from 0100 kmph in 4.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 305kmph. In modern Bentley tradition, the extra performance is matched by markedly improved efficiency; a 13% gain means a range extended by 80km.

New and contemporary styling features define the Mulsanne Speed as a statement in quintessential British luxury. Dark tint accents to exterior detailing hint to the Speed’s powerful character, while on-board technology and connectivity are discreetly integrated beneath the finest materials, created with unrivalled craftsmanship and exquisite handcrafted details.

Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, Wolfgang Dürheimer, comments, “The new Mulsanne Speed is the car that defines Bentley, as a flagship for driving luxury performance. Our customers don’t compromise, and we’ve adopted the same approach in

the design, engineering and crafting of our new flagship.

The Mulsanne Speed is distinguished, calm and relaxing, but always with a connection to the road and relentless dynamic performance on demand. In this car, every journey becomes a drive.”

The Mulsanne Speed introduces Bentley’s first ever directional style wheel, with a design that is handed for the right or left side of the car. The 21” wheels, available in painted, polished and dark tint with machined accent finishes, are individually machined from solid forged blanks, before being perfected by hand.

Twin rifled exhaust tailpipes are the finishing touch to the revised powertrain, while solid, polished stainless steel Speed badging adorns the front fender and door tread plate areas.

The cabin of the Mulsanne Speed is a contemporary reinterpretation of the exquisite interior of the Bentley flagship. To create a modern two-tone feel, a new and unique colour split is available, with new stitch lines, that balances diamond quilted light-colour hide with darker, smooth hide. www.bentleymotors.com

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05 05 Interiors are designed to seamlessly blend with the stylish and state-of-the-art console panel 06 The 7-seater vehicle is both practical and elegant

Infiniti QX60 The Infiniti QX60 is a luxurious crossover that defines conventional wisdom with incredible versatility, and advanced technology features with a sense of refinement.

The interiors are designed to seamlessly blend with the stylish and state-of-the-art console panel. This versatile console features a plethora of functions to offer a ride that’s always a delight.

Paul Baker, General Manager of Infiniti said, “The QX60’s console is like a control centre – right from the Intelligent Cruise Control and the Around View Monitor, to the BOSE Audio System, and all the other innovative features, everything is right at your finger tips.”

The Infiniti QX60 has a roominess that is both practical and elegant. This 7 seater vehicle boasts ample space and has unique flexibility.

He said, “The QX60 is perfect for active families, thanks to the ample legroom and the ease with which passengers can get into both the second and third rows of the car. All the while not compromising on the

comfort and the fine craftsmanship of the interiors.”

The QX60 is quite the beauty and the beast.

Nestled under the bonnet is an engine that packs quite the punch with a 3.5-liter V6 engine rated at 265 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm. Coupled with its responsive handling and extremely comfortable ride, the QX60’s has been designed for optimum performance.

The safety features on the QX60 are unparalleled and uncompromising like in every Infiniti vehicle. This includes a number of advanced safety features like Around View Monitor (AVM), which shows the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the QX60 and the world’s first Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) system, this technology, when the transmission is in reverse, will help alert the driver about crossing vehicles and objects behind the QX60 and can even apply the brakes momentarily to get your attention.

Infiniti Showroom 17 732 732

This versatile console features a plethora of functions to offer a ride that’s always a delight.

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188

Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items

MusicMachine 2, Reuge by MB&F With its spaceship-like design, rock and sci-fi melodies and innovative resonance soundboard, MusicMachine 2 (MM2) boldly goes where no music box has gone before. Underneath its futuristic guise, MM2 features all the traditional elements of a beautifully crafted, high-end music box. That’s no surprise as it’s made by Reuge, the music box manufacturer with nearly 150 years of expertise and experience. MusicMachine 2 doesn’t just look unconventional; it plays unconventional melodies as well and is powered by two independent movements mounted on the starship’s tail section. www.mbandf.com

Fragrance Tray, Designer Shaik The House of Designer Shaik has the pleasure to share the luxurious, lavish, and meaningful creations that have, over time, grown to create an attachment in people’s feelings towards Designer Shaik products. After many years, The Shaik is now focusing on developing accessories to complement the deserved collection of Designer Shaik creations everyone has fallen in love with. The Fragrance Tray displays the collection of Designer Shaik’s luxurious products anywhere around the house, spreading the love that everyone needs. Perfectly in time for the Festive Season, The Designer Shaik Fragrance tray is available in limited quantities, in limited stores. www.shaik.net

TAG Notebooks, Lanvin Fashionable frissons for the holiday season! Lanvin fashion house has selected a collection of luxury presents, which emit a classy elegance, some of which are endowed with a hint of its characteristic humour. A notebook often tells a long story of love, intimacy and fidelity. Its contents reveal the life of its owner who uses it to record their thoughts, activities and notes.

Writing enthusiasts will surely be enchanted by one of these three TAG Lanvin Notebooks illustrated by Alber Elbaz himself. www.lanvin.com

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Must Have

Table Clock, Officine Panerai The perfectly transparent mineral glass sphere of Officine Panerai’s new Table Clock presents two fascinating views of the timepiece. The first one is from the front of the dial mounted in the centre of the sphere, and the other from the back, which enables the exquisite finish and fine details of the P.5000 manufacture movement to be admired. The two faces express the two authentic identities of Officine Panerai: its long history of Italian excellence, which is expressed in a design of unmistakable purity, and its Swiss watchmaking expertise. www.panerai.com/en

Special Edition Princesse Grace de Monaco Ivory Colour, Montblanc The latest addition to the Montblanc Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco, continues to pay tribute to Grace Kelly, American actress and European princess. The cap-top and clip of the Special Edition Princesse Grace de Monaco Ivory Colour feature a delicate neckline signature design, which is inspired by an iconic image of the Princess. Using precious materials, the petal-cut pink topaz on the clip pays tribute to the Grace de Monaco pink rose. The mother of pearl cabochon that has been carefully shaped and polished before setting in the cone, adorns the fountain pen and rollerball and accentuates the feminine colour palette of light, soft pastel shades. www.montblanc.com

TShopper Tote, LOEWE LOEWE presents the first collection of items designed by Jonathan Anderson, a Pre-Launch Capsule spanning different categories and introducing LOEWE’s new universe to the world. Every item reflects the emphasis on tactility, pure form, and functional relevance at the core of LOEWE today, while building on the commitment to modern craft and innovation that has guided the house since 1846. The practical, stylish Shopper Tote boldly carries both LOEWE’s redesigned anagram and logo – and, in one case, is fully covered in fur. www.loewe.com

Saturn ring, Charlotte Mielko Since 1995 Danish born Charlotte Mielko has been an independent stylist and designer, and lifestyle, travel and fashion journalist. Back in 1998 Charlotte designed and developed her renowned Saturn ring, today a classic, and which is now available in several combinations of gold and silver, with or without diamonds. Mielko’s Saturn rings have proven popular and been worn by many well-known designers and celebrities. Each piece from the designers stunning collection is packaged in dark Indian blue packaging with the antique gold logo. charlottemielko.dk

ALSALAM bag, FEATHERS The Emirati brand FEATHERS presents an elegant new collection of handbags for women, called ALSALAM and inspired by the design of the oldest handbag in history, which was made in Iraq in the year 1300. FEATHERS reintroduced the bag with it’s own elegant and simple style. The collection consists 2 handbags with different sizes in addition to a clutch and wallet to complement the collection. The bags are available in 3 different colours; black, grey and navy blue, and are made in UAE using genuine calf leather. www.feathers-fashion.com

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Must Have

Hawk Héritage, Christofle A bird of prey with extremely piercing vision, the hawk has always been used for falconry, a sport that requires long, fastidious training. Christofle, who has mastered the art of working with silver since 1830, chose to portray the hawk at rest on its perch. Special attention was given to the bird’s feathers, making them incredibly realistic. No less than seventeen elements were chased and assembled to breathe life into this predator. Keeping faithful to hunting traditions, Christofle has also created a version with the bird’s hood.

Comes in a limited edition of 99 pieces. eu.christofle.com

Versace Barock Christmas Collection For this holiday season, Versace showcases a special new “Barock Christmas” festive collection. The collection is rebellious but glamorous, as opulent gold decorations feature alongside traditional Christmas colours of red, blue and purple.

Versace history has always been connected to high quality craftsmanship and finding new and excellent materials. A captivating interplay of shining stars, holly sprigs and red bows, brings a wonderful contrast to the Baroque motifs and creates a sparkling yet non-conformist Christmas service with a real rock ‘n’ roll edge. eu.versace.com

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Books

Created in 1994 to offer a new vision in publishing, Assouline has become a global culture and lifestyle luxury brand. As the brand celebrates its 20th anniversary, it opens the doors to its first international flagship: Maison Assouline, for the first time completing its world of culture and lifestyle. Durrah speaks to found Prosper Assouline about his unique journey.

Publishers on Piccadilly

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enowned for its highly original graphic concept and iconic photos, Assouline has been creating the most sophisticated books in the world for two decades. The company’s spirit of savoir-faire has formed a unique, eclectic, chic, and elegant brand that is immediately identifiable. To date, Assouline has published over 1,200 titles across international markets on subjects including fashion, art, architecture, design, culinary arts, photography, and travel. The brand’s locations include Paris, London, New York, Venice, Costa Mesa, Seoul, Mexico City, Istanbul, Lima, and Santiago de Chile.

In autumn 2014 as Assouline celebrated 20 years in the business, it opened the doors to Maison Assouline, its first international flagship. The building, situated at 196A Piccadilly in London, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1922, is one of the most iconic locations of the British capital. In this incredible setting, Maison Assouline has chosen to establish itself as a complete culture and lifestyle brand.

The building is filled with shelves of glossy covered books, objets d’art and deep sofas. “It should have the spirit of a library,” says Prosper, who started the publishing house with his wife Martine 20 years ago.

The Maison Assouline is made up of several sections and departments, catering to a number of different lifestyle needs. Assouline Interiors introduces for the first time a complete furniture collection designed to customise contemporary libraries. The Assouline Didot Bookbag Collection is a line of beautiful quality leather totes, embossed with original motifs and designed for men and women. Assouline Library Candles feature five exclusive scents – Paper, Leather, Wood, Culture Lounge, and Havana – which awaken the senses to recreate the atmosphere of a fine library. Assouline Cabinet de Curiosités are one-ofa-kind objets d’art to furnish a chic modern library.

Assouline Vintage showcases a collection of stylish rare and classic books curated by Prosper Assouline.

Assouline Prints offers a selection of images of iconic photographs from Assouline’s books, and the first exhibit features Cecil Beaton’s scrapbooks. Assouline Accessories and Gifts are Assouline’s line of unique library and desk accessories, including letter openers, paperweights, bookends, special-edition volumes, and more. Assouline Stationary has an exclusive collection of notebooks, letterheads and photo albums, and

finally, Assouline Bespoke Bindery is a custom bindery service for individual orders and personalisation, from notebooks to Bookbags. Regardless of the title – new, vintage, or personal – Assouline is thrilled to preserve the fine art of bookbinding and offer custom curation in the colourful new Bespoke Bindery. All items are delivered by the Assouline Worldwide Delivery Service.

As well as offering an impressive and elegant product range, the Assouline Maison is home to an elegant and refined refreshments area. Seating up to 30 guests, Swans offers a range of choice products including the very best foie gras, cured meat and smoked salmon. Also on offer is a selection of fine drinks from star mixologist Brian Van Flandern and through an exclusive partnership with Dammann Frères tea company, established in 1692, teatime with cannelés and madeleines “de Proust”.

The Maison would not be complete without the Assouline Book Collection, which is presented in its entirety, on the signature Mondrian-style wall of books, with a dedicated section showcasing the exclusive handbound Ultimate collection. www.assouline.com

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01 The Cabinet de Curiosités by Nick Harvey 02 Swans by Prosper Assouline 03 Assouline Interiors by Nick Harvey 04 Hugh Grant with Prosper Assouline by Nick Harvey 05 Maison Assouline façade

Interview with Prosper Assouline What is the brand philosophy of Assouline?

Luxury lifestyle brand on culture.

What do you look for in brands that feature in Assouline books?

Because they are part of our life and DNA.

How do you respond to the statement ‘print is dead’?

For me print is very much alive.

How does Assouline publishing maintain exclusivity?

With a selective distribution and our stores. We are taking care of our books as our baby.

Do you have any favourite or more successful titles amongst the Assouline collection?

Happy Times with Lee Radzivill. She is the only actor of the terrific moment of the history.

Can you tell us about your working relationship with your wife Martine – how does she assist with the company?

We are in the same kitchen every day. She is working on making the books and I am working on the international business.

Where do you see the future of book publishing headed?

Like a luxury item: rare.

What upcoming titles can we look forward to from Assouline?

Impossible Collection of Design, Impossible Collection of Watches, Valentino: At the Emperor’s Table.

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Final Pearl

Final Pearl

Bahrain Noor El Ain

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014 marks the inaugural year for the Festival of Bahrain Noor El Ain – an initiative aimed at stimulating Bahrain’s retail and tourism sectors. This project brings together all sections of Bahrain’s society with a shared ownership of the festival for ultimate success.

The goals of the festival are to support Bahraini businesses, entrepreneurs and markets, showcase stakeholder achievements, inject positivity in the communities and connect with the international community, sending out a message of a thriving and inviting country.

Running over 2 months, from 15 December 2014 to 16 February 2015, the festival comprises of the main shopping festival with participation from the nation’s shops and retailers; a series of local events and bazaars, the entrepreneurs awards celebrating achievement and creativity across all sectors.

To be held annually, the Festival of Bahrain Noor El Ain aims to make the streets of Bahrain come alive with energy and enthusiasm, boost the economy, and increase retail trade and inbound tourism.

The Street Bazaar in Adliya District is the restaurant hub of Bahrain and home to the iconic Market 338.

The venue will be transformed into a vibrant art and entrepreneurial space in collaboration with Al Riwaq Art Space, and the festival will help extend the retailers’ activities through to the National Day weekend.

The Entertainment Bazaar at Al Basta Market is a

purpose built Entertainment Village, which will host an impressive line-up of bands, musicians and artists throughout the duration of the Festival. The market will prove to be a great opportunity for private sector institutions, small enterprises and farmers in the southern governorate to trade their goods and services much to the delight of resident buyers.

The Garden Bazaar, Farmers Market is one that will tickle every foodie’s fantasy as the concept of ‘Farm to Plate’ will be realised in ‘The Kitchen’ which will play host to some of Bahrain’s and the region’s hottest chefs in business. Culinary events like special cooking classes, sampling platters, cook-offs and competitions will add to the gastronomic delight. Set outdoors in the beautiful botanical gardens of Bahrain, the Farmers Market serves as an idyllic venue and a perfect place for family and friends to picnic on the grass, taste the delectable treats on offer or buy fresh produce.

The Old Town Bazaar will also take place, at Arad Fort Corniche, Muharraq. With its stunning sea views, a terraced market area and plenty of parking, the Arad Fort Corniche in Muharraq forms the perfect backdrop to this Old Town market experience. Retailers and Souq traders, both from the high street to the homegrown brands will display their products in front of the timeless landmark of Arad Fort. www.bahrainnoorelain.com

pa n e r a i . c o m

Mediterranean Sea. “Gamma� men in training.

The diver emerging from the water is wearing a Panerai compass on his wrist.

history a n d heroes. radiomir 1940 3 days (ref. 514) available in steel and red gold

PANERAI BOUTIQUE Manama - Moda Mall +973 1 743 1166 - panerai@asiajewellers.com