Chinese Drum-form Pedestal or Base

The sibling with the better memory, or at least more wear.

Carvers of Hebei Province, China, made this drum-form pedestal or base in stone, dated in the record to the 18th century. Stone drums of this low, wide type are commonly used as garden seats or plinths. The top is flat and slightly pitted, and the shoulder is covered with a band of tiny dotted circles. Below, scrolling foliage curls around the sides, partly worn away. The stone is gray-brown with a matte, aged surface.

About seven inches tall and fifteen across. Softened by time, which suits it.