so for a total non-creative person, what is a faux finish?

I don't think there is any white on it, just the blue paint on top of the white plaster (if it is plaster). And glitter. It had LOTS of glitter, which has disappeared over the years.

Yes, there are 2 white psts easiest to see, just where the tail splits into the "y" at the end. There are other white spots, not as easy to see in the photo. And they are all over it. From when I tried to use a damp paper towel and OOPS! That didn't go very well.