We were a little apprehensive in buying this because of the reviews we read on how difficult it was to install, but we took our chances. It was not difficult at all. Yes two people are needed to install. It's not extremely heavy. One person is needed to hold the light up while the other person adjusts the wires to the proper length that is desired. That's it! It is a beautiful fixture. Matches the picture quite well.

As mentioned in the reviews below, the light was difficult to assemble. I do my own lighting all the time, and this 18" one took 3 people. Yet, it is worth the effort. It looks fantastic and it is different than anything available at the local stores. The directions could be better done to explain the set up - considering they are getting over $300 for the item. No painting was needed on my item - not sure why someone would want to paint any piece of it.
Overall it looks great and we are pleased with the purchase.

This round Semi-flush Bowlw/ring is beautiful, but, very difficult to install perfectly without two or three persons to assist. The 18inch light was easier than the 24 inch light which was a nightmare to install. Both are fairly heavy, also, which we did not realize at the time of purchase.
They are magnificent lights when up and lighted, but, the difficulties encountered putting them up were significant.
The 24inch light bowl was slightly damaged when it arrived....chipped around the top edge.

They require us to paint and assemble many parts of this unit. We did not expect that.....