Who’d have thought that birds and tea could go hand in hand? That’s right, that’s not just a cute metal birdie you see sitting in a cage; it doubles up as a tea strainer when it’s released. Designer Alan Chan brings a touch of whimsy to bear on his stainless steel craftsmanship with Tea Matter. Back in the day, Oriental tea parties saw bird-lovers bringing along their pet birds in fancy cages though perhaps none so eye-catching as this contemporary update. This is one little birdie we’d love to hear more from. Available at $260 at Alessi, #04-22/23 ION Orchard 2 Orchard Turn, 6509-8117.