The Little Stool That Could.

Intrusive, they're not.

About the height of a Breton spaniel (think Boston Terrier), they know enough to stay deftly out of the way.

Yet, seemingly out of nowhere, they can appear at a moment's notice, when called upon, for you to sit on, serve on, put your feet up on, and add a foursquare spirit to any gathering.

I discovered these infinitely handy things over and over again in little cafés and open-air markets throughout the French countryside...the locals sitting around, discussing affairs of state and of the mayor, watching a game of pétanque, conversing with a seven-year-old at eye level, consuming local cheese and wine in modest tumblers.

Always had a warm spot for them.

French Stacking Stool (No. 2408), from a 1930s original. Made of steel with a blue-gray patina. Smooth
finish. Terrific outside for extra seating, a place to put the nibbles. Inside, you'll figure it out. They basically store themselves. Stack them high.

(Can be sealed for permanent outdoor use.)

Dimensions: 17" high x 11" square.