Advice about whether an item is genuine

[j_vidler]

Hi I was seeking advice about this piece, the seller states it is at least 150 years old but I'd love to know a little more before I consider buying it. It looks like it has rust spots, but I haven't been able to find anything with similar marks to the base. Thanks

[Stan]

looks like a fake to me, I have never seen a mark written in this fashion.

[j_vidler]

Thanks for that- I was nearly going to buy it until I saw the base and thought I needed to find out more.