Sturdy, quality lamp.  The shade is a definite beige instead of white or cream.  The length of the shade (15") overwhelmed the space I planned it for, but I bought a shorter harp and problem was solved using the same shade.  The longer I have this piece, the more I love it.  It works with both contemporary and traditional decor.  This was an impulse buy when I was buying two, more expensive, lamps and I ended up enjoying this one the most.