The box is made of paper-mache, which is durable and it is processed to have a smooth surface (versus "wrinkly" surface). The flower stems of the decoration and a border are painted in genuine liquid bronze, which makes the colors more vivid. This is the last touch that's added to the box before covering it with several layers of lacquer for protection.

Actual size: 3.74" (9.5 cm) in diameter, 1.57" (4 cm) in height.
Please click on the picture to see details of the painting.