Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Kings 7:28

"And the work of the bases was on this manner: they had panels; and there were panels between the ledges;" — 1 Kings 7:28 (ASV)

Borders - Rather, this refers to “panels” (see 1 Kings 7:32, 35). These were square compartments set between the ledges or moldings. Below this paneling, which was ornamented with lions, oxen (the two animal forms that occur most frequently in Assyrian decoration), and cherubim, was an area decorated with additions of thin work (1 Kings 7:29).

Upon the ledges that surrounded the top of the base, there was a stand for the laver, which was distinct from the upper surface of the base (1 Kings 7:29).