Matthews 20" Double Riser C-Stand with Grip Head and Arm, Chrome

The term 'Century Stand' goes back to the early days of motion picture production. Before there was artificial lighting the stages would revolve to allow for continuous overhead lighting from the sun. Large reflectors would be positioned to bounce or kick the overhead light up onto the stage and illuminate the set and actors. These reflectors were made in many sizes but it seems the most popular was the 100 inch, or 'century', sized reflector. In later years, studios, grips and gaffers began to manufacture the earliest versions of what we now call C-Stands. The original C-Stands had welded bases that did not fold up or adjust but the fact that they easily nested together made them invaluable on the stage. Century Stands, or 'C' stands, are an important component in the image maker's arsenal of tools.These popular stands are available in many different configurations, lengths and finishes. The unique staggered leg design allows C-Stands to be nested and therefore be placed extremely close to one another on set. The lower leg can also be slid under many objects. The sliding leg allows for use on stairs, off curbs and even as high as a desk or countertop. Fast, easy opening and closing.