Hi Zippy,

Thanks for the info !! Didn't think the top wooden
part really "went with" the metal base part. The metal
part looks much to sturdy & heavy to be required to
support the carved out wooden piece..
Could very well be a flag holder or pen/pencil holder.
that someone acquired at a garage sale and then
put together with the base...

Thanks, I love these "brain teasers ". LOL. Liz.