Furniture in an aristocratic residence generally had to be lightweight and compact, as futons, low tables, braziers, and other furnishings were constantly taken out or put away according to the time of day. This stand was designed to fold up for easy storage. Its upper and lower sections move freely up and down the central shaft, allowing the arms and legs to fold against the body. When the stand is unfolded, each section is held in place by metal pins. The trunk-like center shaft is also what gives this type of stand its name: nekojigata, or “shaped like an uprooted tree.”