Rectangular, hinged-lid box with bulging sides made of green, red, and white marbled stone mounted in a gold-plated frame and base with four paw feet. Plain front; no lock or handle. Interior of lid and box as well as box underside are lined in bright red velvet. Small green felt pads are adhered to underside of feet. No marks. Crinkled paper note stored inside is inscribed "Purchased in Rome, Fri., Oct. 24, 1975 in 'church of St. Peter in chains.'"