Chinese Hexagonal Double Lotus Base

Carved lotus petals run around a six sided stone, like a small, quiet column.

This hexagonal double lotus base is from China. It is marble. The lotus is a long standing Buddhist and Chinese emblem, and carved lotus bases are generally used to support statues and other objects. This one is six sided, with a flat top, a flat, stepped foot and a waist that narrows in the middle. Two rows of rounded petals circle the body, one facing up and one facing down. Bands of scrolling leaves run above and below each row. The marble is creamy white, with tan staining in the carving. It is 7.25 inches wide and deep and 6 high.

Built to hold something up, and decorated as though it knew it.