Vtg Santa Salt? White Ceramic Christmas Candle Holder

Up for sale is a vintage Santa candle holder. I am puzzled by the material (and welcome insight via message). It is a white color and feels like a chalky ceramic. It is somewhat salty to the taste. Might it be some type of carved salt? In any case it is an awesome vintage Christmas piece. Santa shows light wear. Some discoloration and gunk from an old candle in his arm crooks. Could be replaced with a new candle. Some porousness on his right fringe. See photos.