Pete,
I really really like the Woodturning and the warm light from the t light helps highlight the many natural features or the laburnum piece and as you say this is the first idea for presenting it and things may change many times.
So my personal opinion, is that this quality turning is more deserving of a light source and plinth that enhances the work rather than 'neutral '. For instance maybe a small Edison type bulb(although this has the issues of health and safety) could enhance and improve the usefulness as well as the attraction of the piece.
Also though there is nothing wrong with the sapele stand it doesn't help set it off. Not sure if that is the colour of the wood or the shape but other possibilities could be other media such as a slate or a cast concrete plinth.
It is interesting that pieces such as this sell well in your experience and doesn't surprise me as I would think some people would pay a decent wad do money to enjoy this work
Hope this piece finds a deserving owner
Regards, Phil
