help identifying this metal object

[marysnofool]

I have uncovered an object that I thought at first might be some sort of picture frame

made of brass it seems.  Not marked.  Looks early English or colonial to me.  Anyone have an idea?

[eoma689485]

I have a similar one... 

It really doesn't serve a purpose other than that of a decorative item.

Mine is Victorian, and made of brass, and I have no idea if it is English or American.

[hamptonauction]

Dimensions should be given and also a side view.

[marysnofool]

Okay, I didn't think of that....it is 8 & 7/8" tall and 8" in diameter.

[hyson1212]

From your pictures I would guess that it is raw iron

[res03hrk]

That is unusual. It does look to be colonial.  A button mold maybe?

[fromus2u]

I believe it is a "stand" for a plate.  Victorians collected portrait plates and other plates, sometimes with their own deceased loved one's portrait on the plate.  A somewhat deeply welled plate would fit in the ring with the "well' holding the plate in place.

[hamptonauction]

loudspeaker frame?