Chinese Round Base (Small)

Pierced cloud scrolls give this black pedestal a lacy middle.

This small round carved sandalwood base is from China. A round base is a simple, versatile form, and its curved edge often carries a molded rim or carved band of ornament. The flat top has softly rounded corners and a tiered edge below it. A band of openwork curls runs along the front, with shaped panels at the sides. Four short curved feet carry it, and the dark surface is satiny. It is 2.75 inches wide, 2 deep and 1.25 high.

All the glamour of a pedestal, none of the spotlight.