Alessi ‘Tea Matters’ Melodic Tea Strainer – Alan Chan 2010

No other manufacturer would, or could, make such a quirky and delightful product. Ostensibly for straining tea but imagined as a cage containing the strainer in the shape of a bird, all beautifully made in 18/10 polished stainless steel and PMMA (poly methyl methacrylate).

The delight is increased when you lift out the strainer and bird song is heard. When you return the strainer to the steel ring support the low voltage circuit is completed and the song switches off. A recessed polished stainless steel tray neatly catches any drips.

The Hong Kong designer Alan Chan describes how he came up with the idea:

“….It was inspired by the social tradition, deeply rooted in Chinese history, with bird fanciers taking their pet birds in exquisite birdcages to tea, as a pastime. The whole object, highly crafted, is an art display in itself.”

Indeed it is!