What is this?  

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A napkin ring?
still thinking though

A poorly designed strainer spoon?
Or conversely, a really poorly designed ladle?

A wine bottle rest?
Try putting a bottle on it, and see if it's balanced - oh, 4 inches, maybe a small wine bottle

Pipe stand
I believe it to be a pipe stand. DCWilson might like one when he's at that point. Carl Aubuck designed one similar to this.

PIPE STAND
i love mystery objects..

What a help !!
This might be to take off your boots. Sure

Laid on its edge
A minimalist abstract fish making a powerful tail swipe to propel itself forward. If not, I like the pipe holder position.

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abstract fish in design, and some kind of candle holder, door-stopper?

Carl Aubock
Here are two of Aubock's pipe rests that sold in the June 21st Wright auction, one went for $240 and the other for $330. One is brass and rattan and the other brass and leather. The brass and rattan one had Aubock's mark impessed into the side of the brass.

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Given Riki's information, I think it's a pipe holder. I like the design but needed to have some idea of the thing's purpose. When it arrives, I'll put a pipe in it and let's see if in fact that's what it is.
Thanks so much everyone.

Pipe options
Brent, now you need to shop for a really cool pipe. Start another thread on "favorite pipes"! Enjoy your acquisition.

pipe smoke
I spoke to the seller who confirmed that when he bought this at an estate sale, someone who'd lived in the house was a pipe smoker. So, everything points to it being a pipe rest! I'll post pics when I get the pipe too.