Chinese Drum-form Pedestal or Base

A stone drum that nobody beats, with an open lotus carved into its belly.

Craftsmen of Shanxi Province, China, carved this drum-form pedestal or base in stone in the mid-20th century. Stone drums like this are commonly used as garden seats, plinths or supports for display. The barrel shape is flat on top, with an overall rough, creamy-gray surface. A lotus bloom with long, pointed leaves is carved across the body, with a row of round beads along the base and a flat collar at the top.

About ten inches tall and thirteen across. A seat, a stand, or a conversation starter.