This bronze Orientale is rather unique in the fact that the finish is dull, and has a rough texture when touched. It is similar to a "flat" wall paint in appearance, however it is not paint. It is quite similar to an oiled bronze finish. All the other bronze Orientales I have seen have a smoother finish that is more shiny than this one. I don't know exactly what the finish is, but it isn't painted, and from the signs of wear on it, it is original as well.