The connection between X Muse vodka and the world of art is right there in the name. Enhancing the imagination and inspiration of the artists, the nine muses are – according to ancient Greek mythology – protectors of the arts, poetry and science. However, there has often been talk in philosophy of a tenth muse, the epitome of perfection and balance. Indeed, the name X Muse is taken from a sculpture that takes the appearance of the poet Sappho by Scottish artist Ian Hamilton Finlay. It is to be found in the Jupiter Artland sculpture park near Edinburgh, which is the spiritual home of this, the first vodka made from a blend of Scottish barley varieties.

Continuing the link with the arts, X Muse has decided to release an annual limited edition of the vodka. In this, the first of the Reveal series, X Muse commissioned London-based Argentinean artist Pablo Bronstein to create a unique Christmas gift box inspired by his unconventional approach to the history of architecture. Bronstein loves exploring the performativity of design and this packaging is a dynamic two-handed play between Gothic and Chinoiserie elements. It echoes his Jupiter Artland installation Rose Walk, which features two follies with juxtaposed styles connected by a rose garden.

Rose Walk – by Pablo Bronstein

‘The Christmas box for X Muse was conceived as a house for the bottle, and as a counterbalance to the harmony of the contents,’ said Bronstein. Quatrefoil, trefoil, and diamond motifs in rich amethyst colours embellish the hexagonal tower made of paper, paying homage to John Dee, an English mathematician and student of the occult who became scientific and medical adviser to Queen Elizabeth I.

A bottle of X Muse and its Christmas box

A strategic cut-out offers a glimpse into the vibrant design of the bottle, which itself resembles the majestic landscape sculpture Cells of Life by Charles Jencks (yes, another tie to the sculpture park). If you are aiming to impress your artsy friends this Christmas, look no further.

The X Muse Reveal Series x Pablo Bronstein Gift Box is on sale in Harvey Nichols and at Selfridges priced at £55. Xmuse.com