I think you have what has happened a lot over the years !! The stand and lid to a chaffing dish where the glass part has been broken !! This was intended for rather formal dinners where a dish needs to stay warm throughout the meal !! A small candle or other heating device like a tea light was placed in the center and lit,, the glass sat in the rack and lid placed on top !! Was used for anything that had to stay hot during the meal !! Crepe suzettes come to mind as brandy had to be hot before lighting !!