Identification of two VERY old ornate statues

[mmusperf2004]

Hello,
I have been viewing this forum for a while, but finally decided to post tonight. Please forgive any naivety in this area, on my part.
Recently, I inherited two statues that have been in my family for 150-175 years. From what I have been told, they were brought over from Italy when my family came to America in 1880. There are no markings, from what I can see. They are filthy, and I am holding off on cleaning them, in fear of doing more harm than good.
Could anyone possibly "steer" me in the right direction, as far as their identification and possible value?
Thank you!
Tom

If the photos aren't viewable, try here:  http://gallery.me.com/pweb1

[Tim]

Very nice and only a guess on my part. I would look into early works of Royal Dux. The underside appears to have once had a mark or paper label. Without a mark to go on, I am only grasping at the quality of the work.

[D&b antiques]

they are a very nice pair.they could date to 1870 a quality pottery designed them but hard to say who.

[mmusperf2004]

Thank you for your feedback!

Would additional pictures help?

I'm going to clean them tonight...maybe, some identifying characteristics will appear!

It does look like there may have been a paper label on the bottom, as there are signs of adhesive.

Any additionally comments would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

[mmusperf2004]

After 2 and a half hours of cleaning...

[D&b antiques]

I noticed the glue. sticker labels appeared about the 1940's & and be came a scourge for dealers. ( removeing the glue )

[mmusperf2004]

I inspected the "glue" area...apparently, it is not glue, but an area of rough porcelain.  If sticker labels appeared in the 1940s, this reaffirms that it is not glue, but extra porcelain.  There is a very faint mark of indigo-colored ink, but not enough to be able to identify it.

[D&b antiques]

it would be easier to say' who did'nt make than to say who did. but even at that. they are a nice pair.