Lamp is as pictured. Black matte finish, sturdy (i.e., not prone to tipping over when you re-adjust angle), gives good light, no glare/eye strain. Is adjustable so you can change the angle easily for where you want the light focused. Base is sturdy so lamp doesn't tip easily (like many do) when you do change the angle. I would NOT recommend it for a desk that's 5 feet or longer. My "desk" is really a 6-foot long conference table with a metal hutch with various shelves/'cubby holes' that sits atop it, which is perfect for my needs. (Easily holds the various paperwork/books/folders, a portable scanner, laptop computer, computer speakers, 2 lamps, plus wide clear area for writing, etc.) Am actually looking to replace this lamp, however, with one that is taller and lights a wider area, but that's just a preference issue, not something wrong with the lamp.