Santini Carved Alabaster Doves

Curatorial Story & Cultural Heritage

This is a vintage pair of carved Italian alabaster dove figurines by A. Santini. The carving of alabaster has deep historical roots in Italy, particularly in the Tuscany region around Volterra, where soft mineral deposits have been quarried and worked since Etruscan times. During the mid-20th century, Italian studios produced numerous decorative animal figurines, often using a mixture of alabaster powder and resin to capture fine sculptural details. Master artisans and specialized workshops in Italy, such as the renowned A. Santini studios, perfected the technique of texturing stone surfaces to mimic soft plumage while maintaining the translucent quality characteristic of fine alabaster. Such pieces were frequently stamped or labeled with maker marks on the base, representing high-end decorative exports during the post-war decades. They remain highly sought-after examples of mid-century Italian decorative arts that continue to find steady demand among interior decorators and vintage enthusiasts. Period: Mid 20th Century Origin: Volterra, Italy