Crystal 12" tall vase: presentation piece?

This one has me a little perplexed. It is a beautiful 12" tall vase with a custom made gold base. I am not sure what the gold material is-it's hard-plaster maybe. It has been engraved on the base with the name "E.H. Henning" (1868-1937) who was a federal judge appointed by president Calvin Coolidge in 1925. It is definitely an old piece. There was some tape or something on the bottom which was removed at some point in time and you can see the age of it. It could have been a presentation piece or gift for the judge or it could have been made to deceive buyers. My guess is as good as yours. Selling it as a lovely vase that will be fun to research. No damage to the crystal.