Rosanna borrows the dainty detailing and plentiful use of curves from 18th-century French Rococo arts to create her modern-day Rococo Noir tableware. The collection's ornate teapot, sugar and creamer set, and pedestal cake stands are executed in sturdy stoneware and glazed a deep, shiny black that elegantly accessorizes some of her other patterns. For Christmas dining, Rococo Noir pairs perfectly with the new Rosanna Haute Holiday pattern, which features such silhouettes in black as Santa's sleigh and a reindeer on a red-and-white ground. Throughout the year, use the solid black Noir to accent Rosanna's decorative black-and-white Parisian Wallpaper collection. Black adds drama to any table setting. Measuring 11-1/2 inches in diameter, this cake stand is the medium size of the three in the collection. A slight rim keeps cupcakes from sliding off, while a scalloped "skirt" drapes like a lacy cloth for a pleasing effect. The larger and smaller cake stands may be combined with this one to create a three-tiered buffet centerpiece with a strong wow factor. After the last crumb is gone, the pedestal cake platter can be placed in the dishwasher, although because of its shape hand-washing may be the better bet. Rosanna packages the cake stand in a round gift box comprised of a gold-and-white brocade-patterned top and a black base, almost as impressive as the piece itself. --Ann Bieri.../ Rosanna Rococo Noir Black Medium 10-1/2-Inch Cake Pedestal, Gift-boxed / Plate Stands
