It's true that these kinds of things were done by more than one company, and are still made today. However, the base and detail leads me in the AVEM direction as well. I certainly don't think there anywhere near the quality of the Chinese one springhead posted. These certainly look Italian to me, and of at least decent quality. I'd be happy to have them on my website, and I like to think that I'm at least reasonably picky.
Springhead: I enjoy your posts and your honesty, even if I don't always agree with your opinions. Thanks for posting all the photos. :angel: