i purchased a large version of this rug for my nursery.  It is really a stunning piece . . .  HOWEVER that chemical smell!  it is almost unbearable in the beginning!  It has dissipated quite a bit now - months later, but i can still smell it.  I am happy it was one of my first purchases so that it has time to air out.  I have researched that this is normal for chemically tanned hides - i guess you get what you pay for. Still an absolutely stunning piece.  

Pros: GORGEOUS
Cons: the smell!