Iittala Taika Espresso Cup, Blue, 3-1/3-Ounce
While most iittala dinnerware embraces form over ornamentation, Taika breaks the mold. True, the forms are clean and simple, but the surfaces are wildly decorated with imaginative owls, foxes, and trees in a rich Nordic tradition. Taika means magic in Finnish, and the enchanted forest theme is apt. The designer of these fanciful scenes is Finnish illustrator and artist Klaus Haapaniemi, a rising star in the international design world. Each porcelain mug, bowl, or plate comes in either a white or midnight-blue background, which allows for individualized expression in mixing together or with iittala's all-white Aika dinnerware.Made in Finland of durable porcelain, the Taika 3-1/3-ounce espresso cup is just right for  a single or double shot of espresso. Haapaniemi's illustrations fully adorn the straight, tapered sides of the cup, while the graceful handle and interior remain white even on the blue version. Paired up with the matching saucer, the festive espresso cups seem to have a special appeal during the holiday season. In addition to microwave-use, all Taika dinnerware is safe for use in the oven, freezer, and dishwasher.--Ann Bieri