Chinese Drum-form Pedestal or Base

A flattened drum, carved all over with something that moves.

This drum-form pedestal or base was carved in stone in Hebei Province, China, and is dated in the record to the 18th century. Low stone drums like this are commonly used as seats, stands or garden supports. The squat, round form has a flat top and a band of tiny pocked dots around the shoulder, over a lower register carved with swirling scrolls and what may be animal forms. The stone is gray-green, worn and softly weathered.

About seven inches tall and fifteen across. A low, patient surface for a very good plant.