This took less than 30 minutes to unpack and put together, very simple.  The only reason it didn't get 5 stars was because the manufacturer forgot to drill a hole in the base pole so I could secure the top piece to it with the provided screw.  The instructions clearly state a hole is supposed to be there, alas, no hole.  Given that the inner piece goes deep enough to make it pretty steady, I did not send it back.  It sits behind a chair in a corner where it won't be in the way of disaster.  Now that's out of the way, it is a very pretty lamp.  It gives off plenty of light but remains a soft light with the shades.  The arch is high.  At it's highest point, its about foot from the ceiling.  The lowest point on the highest shade is about 6ft and the lowest just under 5ft.  The arms move easily and the base is good and heavy to support it.  It's not like to tip over on its own or with gentle brushes.  The shades hanging over my white lounge chair looks very chic, a great combination.