This item is beautiful.  I have placed in above the entrance to our formal dining room going from our formal living room.  It is just as pictured.  Bright and shiny black.  Our living and dining rooms are decorated in black, grey and turquoise with accents of silver.  I looks lovely and many remark how blessed they are when they are sitting in our living room or entering the dining room.  It is not a heavy piece, but will last forever if taken care of properly.  What a great find.  It was just what I was looking for.