Hubs drilled a hole thru the base of the stand and screwed a piece of metal (see red arrow). The piece of metal is what will be inserted in the ground and keep stand steady.

he also took the handle from the lid and repositioned at the base (see yellow arrow)

Ta-da! I will spray paint it gold to match other gazing ball stands later.

What a find! Now that is one fancy dancy gazing ball stand! Can't wait to see it in your garden.

Oh wow -- I didn't have to wait long. It looks great!

What a great idea! Our neighbor’s cat busted mine, you’ve inspired me to look for a new one. That’s so pretty and striking!

Here is another view of chafing dish stand, now a gazing ball stand. This was b4 I stuck it in the ground.

I love that stand and the customization to use the lid below, just beautiful! But wouldn't paint it, it has a great patina.

very clever and attractive!..agree with PKponder..I like the finish..

Well...I think that silver still suggests that it was a kitchen item. But this is low low low on my to do list, so it will remain as is for a while.

The lid on the bottom covers where that round fuel can goes that you light to keep the food warm.

Yes

Will it rust? Maybe just seal it to protect the finish?

It will tarnish but I don’t think It’ll rust

FANTASTIC find! And doesn't it look pretty!?!

If you decide to go hunting for a chafing dish here are some relevant measurements:

9-10” dia. Gazing ball needs a 6-8” dia opening in which to sit

6-8” dia. gazing ball needs a 4-6” opening