Indian Swaminarayan Podium, with Stairs

Four steps up, and a gallery of turned spindles waiting at the top.

This Swaminarayan podium, with stairs, comes from Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, South India, mid to late 19th century, in wood with brass trim. The Swaminarayan movement is a Hindu devotional tradition that took shape in the early 19th century, and its followers are known for elaborate temple woodwork. A broad stepped stair climbs to a railed platform raised on turned legs. Rows of spindles run around three sides, rising to an arched center with a pierced floral panel. Brass straps mark the corners, and a carved frieze edges the apron. Fifty-four inches high and 77 deep.

Few platforms ask you to climb with such courtesy.