Volterra Alabaster Appraisal

Vintage Volterra Alabaster By Ducceschi Hand Carved Red Heart Book Ends

This item consists of a pair of vintage Volterra alabaster bookends hand-carved in a deep red color, resembling hearts. Each bookend features a smooth, domed top section, gently curving down to a flatter, somewhat bulbous base, which then transitions into a rectangular plinth for stability. The material, identified as alabaster, likely gives these bookends a solid weight characteristic of stone. The color is a vibrant, translucent red, possibly dyed or naturally occurring in certain alabaster varieties, with some visible veining or mottling indicating the natural patterns within the stone. Based on the provided image with a measuring tape, the approximate height of each bookend appears to be around 7 to 8 inches from the base of the plinth to the highest point of the curved top. The rectangular bases are proportioned to provide a stable foundation, likely measuring a few inches in width and depth. There are no immediate visible signs of major damage such as chips or cracks, and the surface appears to have a polished finish, indicating good craftsmanship. The term 'Vintage' coupled with 'Volterra Alabaster' and 'Ducceschi' suggests an origin from Volterra, Italy, a renowned center for alabaster carving, and a maker or workshop associated with the name Ducceschi. The "hand carved" aspect highlights the artisanal quality and potential uniqueness of each piece, even within a pair. Without closer inspection, it's difficult to ascertain specific maker's marks, but the quality of the carving and finish appears good. The 'heart' shape designation is an interpretation of the rounded, symmetrical form.