Chinese Double Lotus Base

Lotus on lotus, in the palest stone.

Chinese carvers made this double lotus base in marble. Lotus bases are commonly used to support Buddhist figures and ritual objects, and the lotus is associated with purity. This one shows light gray veining and a smooth top, with a small spiral carving at the base. Shaped like a drum with a swelling middle, it has lotus petals around the upper and lower rims and scrolling flowers carved on the belly. The stone is creamy and warm, with light wear and mineral veining.

About ten inches tall. Sit a lamp on it and watch it become furniture.