I bought a pair of these lamps. I don't know how it is done, but the base color looks almost textured. They have made a statement in my family room. They are substantial and appear heavy. This is a large room with a stone fireplace, so it needed lamps that didn't look dainty. Having said that, I love the shades. They soften the look so they don't appear to masculine. Keep in mind, they need an end table or night stand large enough to balance them out.