This rug is everything and more than I expected. Very thick, plush wool, tightly woven. Very sturdy backing. The color is precisely as was depicted in the photos in the description, a perfect blend of blue and taupe/beige. I am very happy with this purchase. So far there is no shedding. I have read on several websites that when you vacuum a wool rug you should NOT use a vacuum with beater bars, as that will surely cause the wool to shed more. Either turn the beater bar off or use a vacuum that has suction only, such as one for hardwood floors. I would definitely recommend this rug to someone.