The description and specifications do not indicate that this item is distressed. It is distressed with what appears to be dust and grease imbedded in the paint. Paint is also thick and gloppy. There is a pamphlet that was inside the credenza when delivered explaining the distressed look, though it just looks dirty like someone hasn't dusted it in years. Really don't like ordering something that in the specs says that it is not distressed and receiving something that looks like it needs to be sanded and refinished.