How do you clean the pierced metal edges?

Use a soft brush rather than a cloth to avoid snagging threads on the sharp burrs. Clean the gaps with a cotton bud.

We inherited a tall ceramic dish on a stand and I was wondering what kind of food people actually put on these things back then?

They held fresh or preserved fruit, nuts, and dry sweets. The height kept these dessert items safe from spilled gravy and sauces. Hostesses often built small pyramids of grapes and apples on them. The broad flat surface supported the fruit without bruising the lower layers.

Can this go in the dishwasher?

Never subject antique tableware to modern dishwashers. The harsh detergents etch older glass and strip away silver plate. The high heat is also a risk. It causes thermal shock which snaps glass stems and crazes ceramic glazes in seconds. Wash them by hand in warm soapy water instead.

I noticed the bowl on mine spins around when you touch it, is it meant to be loose or has something broken inside the stem?

Many plated examples have a threaded bolt running up the centre. This bolt loosens over time with repeated handling. Turn the piece over and look under the foot. There is usually a single nut holding the whole assembly together. Tighten it gently by hand to stop the bowl spinning.

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Antique Comport

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An antique comport is a raised serving dish mounted on a central pedestal or stem, designed to elevate fruit, sweets, or nuts above the flatware on a crowded dining table.