Mantle looks great, exactly as expected !  I can’t speak to the instructions, we ignored them while installing because our fireplace has 2 wooden braces extending already to slide mantels on.  We did that and secured it with screws on the top very quickly and easily.  Looks just as pictured and the quality is slightly better than expected for the price.  Only 3 stars because there was damage as if it had been dropped.  It was packaged very securely, so I believe it happened before transit.  Husband wanted to send it back but I hate dealing with exchanges so I assured him I could fix it easily if he’d go ahead and install it for me.  That is the reason for my 3 star rating, I shouldn’t have to buy product and spend time “fixing” a brand new mantel.  Had it arrived without the damage I would have happily given 5 stars !