This particular style of weight was lost wax cast in what is known as "Pure Bronze", containing very little actual tin alloy, but owes its color to metals such as copper, arsenic, and antimony. However despite the color, the weight is still mainly about ninety-percent copper. They were mostly produced during the 18th to 19th century, and are easily identifiable by not only their brilliant color, but also by the high degree of decorative tooling and metal working skills, achieved by only the most accomplished artisans of the Imperial courts. The age of the piece is apparent by its smooth worn away surface, where lines and grooves have faded from extensive handling over time.