Strange Mugs, Bone ?

[truckwash66]

I have never seen these, they feel and look like bone, can anyone help ? Thanks

[maxine*j]

Whatever the material, I believe the figures are Ariadne and Dionysus.  

[truckwash66]

Thanks Maxine

[wilsonhepple]

I'm going to go with Bacchus (mug on the right).

I have sold a few of these mugs (mine were pearlware) but were identical in form & design.

Also, Bacchus is nearly always depicted with a grape vine & grapes around his head. 

I found the mug below on another auction site. 

[maxine*j]

Yes, given the coarse look, this might be the Roman version of the god.  The original Greek version, Dionysus, was a bit more aristocratic and refined until the Romans adopted him, although he always loved the grape, revelry and general naughtiness.    

[sathya7]

At first glance I thought maybe soapstone, but then noticed the moulding marks on the handles,  I think they are a composite resin of some kind. Not familiar with "pearlware" could they be that? Definitely not bone.

[truckwash66]

Thanks, it is a mystery, the items are very dry to touch, they feel like they are going to drain the moisture from your hand, very strange. Thanks so far !