This piece was carefully packaged and arrived on time.  It was carefully made of hard wood and is already finish sanded.  For the do-it-yourselfer, it was a delight to start right in with finishing without having to
complete a lot of prep work first.  I finished mine in no time and put it into service as a show piece plant
stand.  It could also be protected with tung oil if stain is not desired.  Very nice piece at an excellent price.