This umbrella by Japanese studio Nendo has a two-pronged handle that allows it to stand on its own when not in use (+ slideshow).

Nendo's Stay-brella is also able to hang from horizontal surfaces when its forked end is hooked over an edge.

Supporting a 16-spoke frame, the black cylindrical handle is straight along its length before splitting into two angled sections at the bottom.

Most traditional umbrellas have to be laid down, leant against a wall or placed in a stand to be stored away, but Nendo's design offers more options.

The designers describe the product as: "An umbrella whose handle makes it not only stable when in use, but able to stand on its own when turned on its handle, hang securely from tables and stay propped up on a wall when not in use."

The fabric stretched over the frame is coated to reduce the amount of UV rays that pass through by 90 per cent, shielding the user from harmful sunlight as well as rain.

A wrist strap attached near the end of the stem can secure the protective device to the arm.

The umbrella comes in eight colour variations and is sold exclusively at Japan's Seibu department stores.

Stay-brella forms part of the by|n range designed by Nendo for the retailer, which also includes a set of minimal basket containers unveiled by the studio last week.

Photography is by Akihiro Yoshida.