Webbed chair and ottoman or rubber duckies?

GET THIS... 

When we spied the Kinesis Chair & Ottoman striking a pose amongst the classic furnishings in Thos. Moser’s Back Bay showroom, we immediately thought of the Sesame Street jingle “One of These Things Is Not Like the Others.” But then, what good is 30-plus years of all-wood craftsmanship tradition if you don’t shake things up every once in a while? Looking rather mid-century-meets-outer space, these new designs by David Moser, son of founder Thomas, definitely stand out surrounded by the traditional-with-a-twist furniture that is the hallmark of the company. Yet upon closer inspection, the beautiful walnut woodwork and awe-inspiring attention to detail of this curvaceous chair ($7000) and ottoman ($2300) dispel any doubt that they belong in the company of Thos. Moser’s signature polished North American wood collection. Still, the fact remains that the bronze five-point base marks the first time the company has incorporated metal into its designs, and while Moser curmudgeons may rue the day that this next-generation whippersnapper (no doubt under the influence of that ghastly “rock-and-roll music” they’re listening to now) fiddled with tradition, we’re digging the daring change-up. We’re also told the shape was inspired by the look of an outstretched human hand, which is way classier than our first guess — we thought it might have been modeled after the bronze webbed feet of the “Make Way for Ducklings!” variety. Waddle over to Thos. Moser (19 Arlington Street, Boston, 617.224.1245) and check them out.

OR THAT...

While we’re on the subject of ducks, let’s turn to a slightly different incarnation: the rubber kind. A favorite feathered friend for all ages, this species can be found cavorting around the edges of bathtubs or bobbing in the bubbles of a therapeutic soak as we down a glass of wine and unwind after a long, stressful day (thanks for lending an ear, Ducky). Invariably cheerful in disposition, this unique genus sports bright-yellow, strangely pliant plumage that is impressively waterproof and, fortunately, not prone to seasonal molting. Presently available as … excuse us! evolving into … a wide assortment of varieties, these diminutive, flightless avian companions are graciously appreciative of our immodesty, and they require very little food for sustenance, making them ideal house pets. But perhaps most importantly, when used as bathroom décor, these rubber ducks ($3.50 each) from Pulp (306A Commercial Street, Provincetown, 508.487.8070) convey a powerful statement to any prospective romantic partner spending his or her first night at your pad: “Hey, Joe/Jane, underneath this tough exterior, there’s a playful, child-like spirit just waiting for someone to suggest a threesome with Mr. Bubbles.”