[ Ref. Steve Kember in 200221 MMDigest ]

Steve,  Oh boy, have you got a job ahead of you!  Here is a picture
of a similar box with a slightly different design on it.

First you need to repair and stabilize the wooden parts.  Then I
think the wood needs to be covered with gesso (or something similar).
Then it's sanded and polished to a smooth surface with a rounded
edge treatment.  Next, it's dyed black and finished/polished with
black shellac (or possibly varnish).

Now all you have to do is apply (paint in) the branches and birds
with 2 or 3 different colored gold paints.

If you can't deal with painting the gold decorations, you could
create a graphic based on a scan of the original top (as is) and
make a rub-on or decal to apply the decoration to the new cover.
Lastly, apply a clear finish that is compatible with the previous
materials.

Good luck.
Craig Smith

 [ http://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/20/02/22/200222_222105_sOct%202012%20003.jpg