An early 20th century garden feature--most likely an end-of-day piece created by iron workers using slag, the material remaining after the ore had been refined.  Made in 2 parts, this unusual piece consists of a wide round bowl sitting atop a flared base. Originally a lead pipe ran up the through the base allowing water to bubble into the top.  The same can be achieved today using a simple garden pump and plastic tubing.  Alternatively, the small center opening in the bowl can easily be closed off and the bowl filled with water for use as an attractive birdbath or plant display.