The brass lamp parts do indeed make good pedestals. For keel ships you can use four rather than two. You can bevel one end with a file to angle them as well.
For my corvette I am planning to put her on blocks like in a drydock, at least initially. This method is popular with small large scale ships.
You can also make wood or metal cradles. Use a piece of card stock to make a template of the hull shape so you don't mar your finish. You can also line the edge of the cradle with felt for the same reason. This works well for operating models that are taken off the base to sail.
For my models I always finish the display base with a glass or plexi enclosure to keep dust off.
Enjoy!
Bruce