This is an 18" carved sphere on a 24" high base both made made from concrete. Both are hollow and relatively easy to lift and move. The finish is an industrial dye that, on the sphere, was subsequently coated with bronze powder in a binding solution. Neither sphere nor base should flake or fade over time. They are safe to have outdoors in all climates year round. The only thing you need for installation is a level surface to set the base.