This petite footed basin carved of solid limestone was likely once used in the courtyard of a wealthy Qing-dynasty home. Unusual decorative elements elevate the basin and suggest its original use as an outdoor incense burner for ancestor worship. We love the gentle curve of the basin's top edge and the central panel of faintly etched Chinese characters. The basin has aged beautifully over time and today could be used as an elegant planter for succulents and other flora.