Chinese Iron Fireworks Launcher, Based

Red paint flakes off this slender pole like a faded uniform.

This wood and iron fireworks launcher on a base is from China, and dates to the 19th century. Firecrackers and fireworks are traditionally used in China to mark celebrations, and the loud noise is often said to drive away bad luck. Roughly, a slender rod painted red, with patches of bare patches showing, rises from a stepped black base to a short dark cylindrical cap with a flat, slightly open top. A narrow dark band joins cap and shaft. It is 10 inches wide, 8 deep and 35.5 high.

Scuffed, flaking and carrying it all with some dignity.