Meet An Sen, the Pattern Creator of CHUS EXCLUSIVE Mid-Autumn Gift Box

Gazing at the CHUS EXCLUSIVE Mid-Autumn Gift Box, you can’t help but feel your mind being swept away by a different kind of artistic allure. I wondered, what treasures lie within? What artistic identity is hidden behind this creation?

The Young Artist - Designer An Sen and the journey of CHUS EXCLUSIVE's Mid-Autumn gift box

On a breezy afternoon at the cusp of summer and fall, I had the pleasure of meeting An Sen, the artist behind CHUS’s exclusive Mid-Autumn gift box. She is a talented Vietnamese artist and a free spirit who gracefully drifts through time, quietly connecting with childhood memories and the breath of tradition to infuse every product with her soul.

"Meet An Sen and discover the story behind CHUS EXCLUSIVE’s Mid-Autumn Gift Box" (Photo: An Sen)

An Sen shared how two classic Vietnamese songs became her guiding light while working on the "Lantern Festival" project for the Mid-Autumn gift box:

(Autumn Chrysanthemums - Phạm Tuyên)

And...

(The Lantern Parade - Vân Thanh)

These lyrical lines resonated like an echo from the past, guiding An Sen on her journey to create this unique Mid-Autumn gift box.

These two songs served as the first sparks of inspiration Photo: An Sen)

The icon of handcrafted lanterns like star-shaped, carp, and butterfly… brings back sweet memories of An’s childhood Mid-Autumn Festivals. She remembers the full moon illuminating the village square and carefree children parading with their lanterns in hand.

The image of childhood lanterns is central to the design (Photo: An Sen)

Mid-Autumn gift box "Lantern Festival": A Harmonious melody of endless inspirations

"My favorite part is the gift wrap. I'm captivated by traditional Vietnamese wrapping paper and enchanted by the patterns of William Morris."

Taking inspiration from the classical patterns of William Morris - one of the pioneers of the arts and crafts movement - along with the warm golden chrysanthemums of Vietnam’s autumn, An Sen has crafted a visually elegant masterpiece. It’s a poetic dance between memory and the future, where Vietnamese art waltzes gracefully with global artistic influences.

"Chrysanthemum patterns inspired by William Morris’s classical designs" (Photo: An Sen)

An Sen explains her arrangement of the flower motifs: “I placed the patterns rhythmically, matching the beat of 'tùng dinh dinh cắc tùng dinh dinh', interspersed with chrysanthemums, a signature flower of autumn with a golden hue reminiscent of the full moon.” For this young artist, autumn chrysanthemums evoke the longing of distant travels, standing tall amidst the chaos of modernity, quietly but radiantly like a single flower in a field.

In this garden of thoughts, An Sen has brought to life a vibrant autumn landscape. As you look closely, you'll find yourself walking through a garden of golden chrysanthemums swaying gracefully, while childhood lanterns climb through the blossoms joyful, radiant, and carrying the artist’s message of happiness.

Pattern of the CHUS EXCLUSIVE Mid-Autumn Gift Box (Photo: An Sen)

The Embodiment of a Gift from Vietnam

This Mid-Autumn gift box, crafted with a sliding wooden lid, features the iconic image of a “Chim Lac” bird wearing a conical hat, and carrying precious treasures within. According to An, “This bird symbolizes not only CHUS but also a messenger, carrying Vietnamese gifts far and wide not just on Mid-Autumn night but throughout the year.”

CHUS EXCLUSIVE Mid-Autumn gift box: A true symbol of Vietnamese artistry" (Photo: CHUS)

This bird, a traditional symbol, whispers tales of old, reminding us of enduring Vietnamese values that are still vividly alive today.

What awaits inside this artistic mid-autumn gift box?

The initial impression comes from the accompanying paper bag when you first receive the personalized CHUS Mid-Autumn gift box. The elegance is apparent, with its sturdy material and shimmering CHUS logo that sparkles under the light. The subdued tones and minimalist design lend the bag a graceful, luxurious feel, raising anticipation for the treasures inside.

The CHUS Mid-Autumn Gift Bag (Photo: CHUS)

The box itself, made from premium wood, strikes a perfect balance—not too heavy, but solid enough to exude a sense of sophistication. The smooth surface and deep brown hues give it a timeless charm. The sliding lid opens with ease, unveiling the treasures inside like peeling back layers of Vietnamese culture and tradition.

The engraved personalized name on the lid adds a unique touch, making this gift truly one-of-a-kind. This small detail reflects the care and thoughtfulness of the giver, transforming it into not just a material gift but a vessel of deep sentiment.

A personalized gift box engraved with the recipient’s name (Photo: CHUS)

CHUS offers two versions of the personalized gift box, each filled with thoughtful treasures. The large gift box stands out with a unique fire-glazed ceramic teapot set, delicious green tea almond mooncakes with salted egg yolk, and pure lotus flower tea. Each item represents a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and Vietnamese flavors.

The personalized Mid-Autumn gift box with ceramic teapot set (Photo: CHUS)

Meanwhile, the medium-sized box offers a beautifully crafted ceramic cup from Gốm Đông Gia, a delicate reflection of Vietnamese artistry, paired with mooncakes and lotus tea.

Personalized Mid-Autumn gift box with ceramic cup (Photo: CHUS)

Both options offer a heartfelt gesture for anyone seeking completeness in life, perfect for sending to family, friends, or colleagues as a symbol of love and affection.

Final thoughts

As I close the gift box and end my conversation with Ms. An Sen, I can't stop thinking about the shimmering lanterns of my childhood, the bright moonlit nights, and the skillful, talented artisans.

I see myself in CHUS, in Ms. An, and in so many others—those who, like a wandering bird flying far, carry with them the gifts of soul and memory, preserving and conveying Vietnamese cultural values in their own unique way.

"Keep reaching further," I remind myself.