Sandstone Column Base

This late 19th-century column base likely figured into the grand and imposing surroundings of a Qing-dynasty courtyard, supporting a large wooden beam that flanked an entry or walkway. Shaped from a solid block of sandstone, the column base has a tiered, square-to-round design and is carved in low relief with intricate detail.

The top has a round, drum-form shape carved with leaf-form lappets and a pattern of raised dots that imitate the nails used to stretch the hide top of an actual drum. A simple ruffle connects the top to an eight-sided pillar, in turn set upon a short, square base. Several of the flat sides are carved in relief with ribbon-clad treasures against a geometric meander, including a scroll, a qin and a rhinoceros horn. A fantastic example of Qing-dynasty stone sculpture, the column base finds its place today tucked within a lush garden or used indoors as a pedestal or side table.

Deaccessioned from the MacLean Collection of Asian Art.