This rug was delivered a day earlier than promised. The packaging was intended to protect the rug from damage in shipping and it most certainly did. The black is a true rich deep blue black and appears to be one which should have cost much more than it did. It is similar in pattern and  coloring to the rug it replaced., but the Elberta Medallion really compliments the Quarter- sawn Diuning table, chairs and buffet. I am most pleased