There is a box similar to this on the cover of the summer issue of the woodturners catalog. I think the base is excellent, so I had to give it a try. This is my version. Bradford Pear, Bloodwood, Grenadillo, and Cherry that I think I will ebonize.
It looks great so far. Funny though that I'm finishing my version of the same thing...lol I guess I'm not the only one who gets their magazine...lol How big is your piece? Did you turn the base as one piece?
This piece caught my eye as well when I received my catalog. You did a good job and I like the way you changed the finial. I also like your wood combinations. I agree with you the ebonized base may look better. Great Job!