This chest/bench is just what I hoped for, and more!  The finish is a whitewash with the light wood showing through, and is very elegant.  The carving takes it to a higher level so that is as much art as it is furniture. The interior is nicely finished; the top is reinforced  so that even though it is not a thick slab of wood it is very supportive.  and that keeps the weight down so that it is easy for me to move by myself.  Excellent value for the price!