This little teapot may be short, but it's anything but stout — modern and sexy would be more apt descriptors of the Sorapot. Designed by Joey Roth, Mr. Tea here isn't just a pretty pot; the large metal handle acts as a heat sink to prevent your tea from oversteeping in water that's too hot… and so you don't burn your precious fingers when you pick it up, presumably. But the best thing about this fine piece of kitchenware is that it's real, and not just a concept like many other winning household designs. Roth's creation will go on sale in February 2008 for $179, with a limited run of 300 units.

One question, Joey: How do you actually get hot water into this thing? Through the oversize spout, I guess. Fair enough, but what about the teabags? I hope I don't have to take apart the glass cylinder to get them in there. And why does Roth say it's only for white and green teas? Anyone on the Sorapot Facebook page want to take a stab at these?

I'm sure Roth has thought about all of this, though, so why not lay down your $50 deposit on a preorder? Browse the gallery below for a closer look. — Peter Pachal

Sorapot, via Gizmodo