I absolutely LOVE this coffee table.  It is so unique and really became the focal point in my lounge.  After having read all the reviews, I thought I would order it and see.  It arrived extremely well packed and the corners were well protected.  It is just like the photos and the top is beautiful.  I am going to purchase a glass top for it though as I feel things could either mark it or fall between the cracks.  If you intend of doing the same, wait until you get it before you measure as mine was 47.5" square and not 48", so there may be variations.  I won't be staining it or putting any kind of coating on it as I like it as is.