Alabaster? Urn Style Bookends

I recently acquired this pair of bookends in an estate auction lot. I have been unable to find anything like them online. They appear to be alabaster. Maybe Italian. There are some markings on the bottom of one, but I have been unable to make them out. Someone who is knowledgeable might recognize the words. Any input would be appreciated!

 

They appear to be pieces of a garniture rather than book ends.

Debora

 

I obviously need all the help I can get...! I was going by the fact they have a flat side. Maybe that just indicates it is the "back"? They are nearly a foot tall, so rather large for bookends.

 

This isn't much of an improvement, but it may save a neck or two:

 

I agree with @Debora. They look like they should be on a mantel.

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=mantel+garniture&_sacat=0&LH_TitleDesc=0&rt=nc

 

These are more ornate but will give you a general idea of what they are and how they were used.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garniture

Debora

 

@bercrystal your link just goes to a generic search page on eBay.

 

There isn't a "flat side" readily visible in your photographs.

Debora

 

I hate eBay!!!!

Debora's example works though.

@adventurevintage - BTW welcome to the forum!!

Do a search for mantel garniture & you will see all types. Oftentimes there would be a matching clock as part of the set. They can get quite ornate as you will see.

 

Try this:

https://tinyurl.com/aernefau

 

Show off.