Abstract: The joint of this invention is pivotable and lockable about two perpendicularly intersecting axes. It is particularly suitable for a reading stand for patients confined to bed. Be means of the joint, the supporting surface of the reading stand can be adjusted as to slant as well as transverse tilt. The joint comprises a T-shaped component (12) supported in bearings (11) so as to be tiltable and lockable about its cross beam. The bearings (11) are mounted on a base plate (10). The base plate (10) itself is pivotable and lockably secured to a support plate (20). In order for a sick person to be able to adjust the joint with a minimum of physical exertion, locking levers (14 and 23) are provided for each of the two adjustable positions. The locking is effected by detent means (13--13' and 17-26).