Chinese 2-Tiered Miniature Base, with Cloud Motif

Dark stand twisted into a double spiral, like a ribbon that learned geometry.

This two-tiered miniature display base with cloud motif is from China, and dates to the 20th century. Chinese craftsmen have long made carved wooden stands for displaying small objects such as scholar's rocks, vases and sculpture, so that each piece sits on its own support. Low, glossy dark-brown base shaped from a flat strip folded into two interlocking square scrolls and joined by a bridge. Short curved feet support each side. The surface has a smooth, satin sheen. It is 5.6 inches wide, 1.8 deep and 1.6 high.

Plenty of loops to keep something else in the spotlight.