Who invented the coffee table?

No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.Notably, F. Stuart Foote, the designer behind the American Imperial Furniture Company, claimed to have invented the coffee table in the early 20th century. He stated that he did so by cutting down the legs of a dining table. However, it's unlikely that Foote is the actual inventor of the coffee table, as books describing coffee tables existed in the UK a decade before his birth in 1872.Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Is an ottoman a coffee table?

Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What size should a coffee table be?

A coffee table should generally be two-thirds as long as the sofa it stands in front of and around the same height as the sofa’s seat cushions.

Why is it called a coffee table?

Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.

What is the difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?

While both pieces are relatively new to the furniture world, the main difference between them are their shapes. A cocktail table is generally square or rectangular in shape, while a coffee table tends to be oval or circular in shape. You can shop a collection of furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a sofa table and a coffee table?

The difference between a sofa table and a coffee table is that a sofa table is always behind the sofa and a coffee table is in front of it. Additionally, a sofa table is the same height as the sofa and a coffee table is much shorter.

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables .The term “end table” is frequently used interchangeably with “coffee table,” and while these two furnishings have much in common, each table type offers its own distinctive benefits in your space.Your end table is likely going to stand as tall as the arms of your sofa , and its depth will match the seating . These attributes allow for tucking the table neatly at the end of your sofa in order to provide an elevated surface between your seating and the wall. End tables are accent pieces — they’re a close cousin to side tables , but side tables, not unlike the show-stealing low-profile coffee table, are intended to be positioned prominently and have more to do with the flow and design of a room than an end table, which does a great job but does it out of the way of everything else.Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.

What is a tray top coffee table?

Tray top coffee tables are coffee tables with long, flat rectangular surfaces that are supported by an x-frame base. Low tables that were initially used as tea or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. After coffee drinking and “coffee breaks” became popular, it didn’t take long for coffee and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary tray top coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?

Styling a Noguchi coffee table really depends on the space you’re placing it in. The possibilities are far-reaching, so consider the colors and coordination of the other furniture and fixtures around the table. Noguchi tables look beautiful on their own or styled with flowers, books or pottery. Shop a selection of Isamu Noguchi pieces on 1stDibs.

How much does a coffee table cost?

On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.

How do you style an oval coffee table?

To style an oval coffee table, create balance with opposites. Choose a sofa and accent chairs with a boxier shape for a striking contrast. Place a rectangular tray in the center and use it to display decorative accents or to store remotes and coasters. Another approach to decorating an oval table is to use decorative accents at different heights. Think of a tall vase placed next to a low bowl and a small sculpture positioned on top of two stacked coffee table books. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oval coffee tables.

What is the standard size of a coffee table?

There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?

Yes, a coffee table should generally be lower than a couch. However, the top of the table should only be slightly lower than the couch to maintain a balanced look. A good rule of thumb is to choose a table no more than one inch shorter than your sofa's seat height. Explore a large collection of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

What is the average height of a coffee table?

The average height of a coffee table is around 16 to 18 inches. Designers typically choose this height to create a balance between coffee tables and sofas. The average seat height of sofas is 17 to 18 inches, and experts typically recommend that coffee tables be no more than 1 inch shorter than sofa-seat height. Explore a diverse assortment of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

What is the best coffee table for a sectional?

The best coffee table for a sectional can be a round coffee table, particularly with respect to U-shaped sectionals. The circular design creates a sense of balance in small spaces and renders it easy for guests to move to and fro, especially when surrounded by chairs. Find a collection of antique and vintage coffee tables on 1stDibs today.

How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is a tall coffee table called?

A tall coffee table is usually called exactly that — a tall coffee table. Coffee tables, also referred to as cocktail tables, are generally designed to sit at or below the sofa's seat height. These tables may come in a range of sizes, but they are often between 16 and 18 inches high and are designed in a variety of lengths and widths. They’re meant to provide a practical table-top surface that complements your living room layout. (A tall version might also be suitable for use as a dining table.) Shop a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary tall coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Why are modern coffee tables so low?

Modern coffee tables tend to be low because they’re most commonly placed in front of couches and chairs. Historically, coffee tables were placed behind the couch which necessitated a taller table. Over time, as styles changed and coffee tables came to be positioned in front of couches, their heights were lowered to accommodate the modern arrangement. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage and contemporary coffee tables from some of the world’s top sellers.

Harp Coffee Table

18 Th Century French Furniture Sofa

Fred Press Eclipse

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Golden Harp Coffee Tables (2x) Iron Brass Glass Mid-Century, Italy

H 18.9 in W 50 in D 30 in

Early Pedestal Coffee Table No. 5452 Designed by Irving Harper for George Nelson

By Herman Miller, Irving Harper

Located in Kansas City, MO

Round white pedestal coffee / side table designed by Irving Harper for the George Nelson Office and

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Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Early Pedestal Coffee Table No. 5452 Designed by Irving Harper for George Nelson

H 16.75 in Dm 28.5 in

Unique Mid-Century Modern Harp Shaped Coffee Table by DIA

By Design Institute America, Romeo Rega

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This beautiful vintage modern coffee table features a stylish ellipse shaped chrome base with thick

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Unique Mid-Century Modern Harp Shaped Coffee Table by DIA

H 14.5 in W 40 in D 16 in

Vintage Glass and Chrome Harp Shaped Coffee Table by Dia, 1970s

Located in Chesham, GB

A rectangular glass topped coffee table from the 1970s. The table features a stylish ellipse shaped

Category

Vintage 1970s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Vintage Glass and Chrome Harp Shaped Coffee Table by Dia, 1970s

H 15.75 in W 51.97 in D 25.99 in

Restored Rattan "Harp" Side Table W/ Slat Underside

Located in Van Nuys, CA

This minimal yet elegant coffee table features two "Harp" shaped rattan sides suspended by

Category

Vintage 1950s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan

Restored Rattan "Harp" Side Table W/ Slat Underside

H 17 in W 15 in D 25 in

Maison Baguès, Hollywood Regency, Small Coffee Table, Bronze, Glass, 1940s

By Maison Baguès

Located in Stamford, CT

Maison Baguès bronze coffee table. Glass top with bronze base with base having harp shaped supports

Category

20th Century French Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Maison Baguès, Hollywood Regency, Small Coffee Table, Bronze, Glass, 1940s

H 17.992 in W 33.5 in D 18 in

Yakisugi Table Basse by Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Tables

Materials

Fabric

Yakisugi Table Basse by Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 19.69 in Dm 17.72 in

Large Lee Rosen for Design Technics Earthen Relief Ceramic Table Lamp, 1950s

By Lee Rosen, Design Technics

Located in Bainbridge, NY

, light rust brown, dark taupe and coffee. With short brass neck and original harp. 21H to socket. Organic

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Large Lee Rosen for Design Technics Earthen Relief Ceramic Table Lamp, 1950s

H 30 in Dm 10 in

Mid-20th Century MCM Drip Glaze Ceramic Ball Lamp with New Black Shade

Located in Topeka, KS

and featuring a coffee brown drip glaze ring. It’s fairly large scale with a twelve-inch diameter and

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid-20th Century MCM Drip Glaze Ceramic Ball Lamp with New Black Shade

H 28.5 in W 19 in D 19 in

Late 20th Cent Modern to Postmodern Southwest Style Textured Plaster Floor Lamp

Located in Topeka, KS

, absolutely beautiful, and it SCREAMS 1980’s genre!! But much like the incense stick burning on the coffee

Category

Late 20th Century American Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Late 20th Cent Modern to Postmodern Southwest Style Textured Plaster Floor Lamp

H 58.5 in W 24.5 in D 24.5 in

Green Borghese Sofa Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese” sofa for La Chance, new French editor

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Iron

Green Borghese Sofa Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

H 33.86 in W 31.5 in D 96.07 in

Amphora Lounge Chair by Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese” sofa for La Chance, new

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Chairs

Materials

Fabric

Amphora Lounge Chair by Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 35.44 in W 38.43 in D 35.04 in

Sahara Sofa by Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese

Category

2010s French Post-Modern Sofas

Materials

Aluminum

Sahara Sofa by Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33 in W 163.78 in D 62.41 in

Sahara Sofa by Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Aluminum

Sahara Sofa by Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33 in W 107.49 in D 34.61 in

Green Borghese Sofa, Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Metal

Green Borghese Sofa, Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33.47 in W 74.02 in D 32.68 in

Borghese Sofa Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese” sofa for La Chance, new French editor

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Steel

Borghese Sofa Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33.47 in W 97.64 in D 29.93 in

Green Borghese Sofa, Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery

Green Borghese Sofa, Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33.47 in W 74.02 in D 32.68 in

Green Borghese Sofa, Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Metal

Green Borghese Sofa, Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33.47 in W 74.02 in D 32.68 in

Special Edition Pierre Frey Fabric, Borghese Long Sofa, Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Wool

Special Edition Pierre Frey Fabric, Borghese Long Sofa, Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33.47 in W 97.64 in D 35.04 in

Women And Art Contested Territory by Judy Chicago 1st Ed 1999 Hardcover Book

Located in North Hollywood, CA

plates, this is no coffee-table decoration. It seems compiled to capture the attention of any browsing

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Late 20th Century American Art Deco Books

Materials

Paper

Women And Art Contested Territory by Judy Chicago 1st Ed 1999 Hardcover Book

H 11.25 in W 9.25 in D 1 in

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Modernist Harp Shaped Sculptural Walnut and Brass Tone Table Lamp, Pair

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Pair of attractive Mid-century tulip-shaped sculptural Walnut wood table lamps with Brass tone base resembling the shape of a Greek harp. Each lamp features a danish Inspired design ...

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Modernist Harp Shaped Sculptural Walnut and Brass Tone Table Lamp, Pair

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Arthur Umanoff Desk Clock, George Nelson & Associates, 1950s

By Howard Miller, George Nelson

Located in Houston, TX

George Nelson & Associates table clock. Howard Miller Clock Company, USA. Rosewood, steel. Measures: 4.25 W x 3 D x 5.5 H inches. Signed with decal manufacturer's label t...

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H 5.5 in Dm 4.25 in

French Midcentury Chromed Steel Coffee Table with Round Natural Slate Top

Located in Chicago, IL

French midcentury coffee table with chrome-plated steel base. Three cylindrical steel legs support the round natural slate top, which shows oxidation.

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French Midcentury Chromed Steel Coffee Table with Round Natural Slate Top

H 13.5 in Dm 39.25 in

Scandinavian Modern Mod. 104 Teak and Glass Coffee Table by Sven Ellekaer

By Sven Ellekaer , Christian Linnebergs Møbelfabrik

Located in Vienna, AT

This Stunning circular coffee table model 104 was designed by Sven Ellekaer for Chirstian Linneberg, Denmark 1962. This exquisite coffee table is composed of a beautiful elegant bent...

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Scandinavian Modern Mod. 104 Teak and Glass Coffee Table by Sven Ellekaer

H 18.9 in Dm 39.38 in

Elegant mid century solid brass cocktail table by Mastercraft

By Company of Master Craftsmen

Located in Allentown, PA

This is a mid century vintage coffee table by Mastercraft. This Mastercraft coffee table has a soft bronze finish to the brass with a curved waterfall edge. The coffee table has a gl...

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Elegant mid century solid brass cocktail table by Mastercraft

H 16 in W 40 in D 40 in

Italian Brass Coffee Table

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

1960's Italian brass and glass coffee table Thick heavy brass base with angular legs Glass top slightly bows out in the middle of rectangular shaped top Simple elegant piece Ital...

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Italian Brass Coffee Table

H 14 in W 43.5 in D 19.5 in

Duck Decoy Table Lamp

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

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H 22 in W 16 in D 9.25 in

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Located in Oak Harbor, OH

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Anaconda Coffee Table by Paul Tuttle

H 16.25 in W 40 in D 40 in

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By Franco Albini

Located in Dronten, NL

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Italian Glass Coffee Table

H 16.74 in W 50.79 in D 29.53 in

Mid Century Modern Stainless Chrome X-Base Coffee Table with Glass Top

By Milo Baughman, Knoll, Le Corbusier, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Located in Rockaway, NJ

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Stainless Steel

Mid Century Modern Stainless Chrome X-Base Coffee Table with Glass Top

H 17 in W 32 in D 56 in

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H 24.75 in W 20 in D 16 in

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This custom designed table was made using the beautiful vintage harp from a Wurlitzer piano and has

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Piano Harp Coffee Table

H 17.25 in W 60 in D 42 in

Tile Top Table, Italy, 1960s

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Extraordinary Danish Modern Table Designed by Ludvig Pontoppidan

H 21.75 in W 77 in D 34.5 in

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Mariner S A Coffee Table

Located in Den Haag, NL

coffee table. With a Lucite shape harp, and cast brass details, on the bottom a mirror, and a cut glass

Category

Vintage 1980s Spanish Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Lucite

Mariner S A Coffee Table

H 14.97 in W 49.22 in D 21.66 in

Design Institute America Art Deco Style Chrome and Glass Coffee Table

By Design Institute America

Located in South Bend, IN

A unique Art Deco style chrome and glass coffee table by Design Institute America. The table

Category

1990s American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Design Institute America Art Deco Style Chrome and Glass Coffee Table

H 15.5 in W 50 in D 26 in

Stunning Empire Revival Coffee Table W. Bronze Swan Supports & Green Marble Top

Located in Lisse, NL

and fine looking coffee table of costly materials is in good condition. The contrasting colors of the

Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Bronze

Stunning Empire Revival Coffee Table W. Bronze Swan Supports & Green Marble Top

Free Shipping

H 16.2 in W 35.5 in D 17.5 in

Early Mid-Century Bronze Cocktail Table after Maison Baguès

By Maison Baguès

Located in Bridgeport, CT

In very good condition with stepped edge and harp base. With age appropriate wear to bronze

Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Early Mid-Century Bronze Cocktail Table after Maison Baguès

H 17.25 in W 41.25 in D 21.5 in

"Tiffany in Fashion" Book by John Loring Coffee Table Book

By John Loring, Tiffany Studios

Located in North Hollywood, CA

coffee table or library book about the history of the iconic luxury jeweler.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Romantic Books

Materials

Paper

"Tiffany in Fashion" Book by John Loring Coffee Table Book

H 12 in W 9.5 in D 1 in

Paul Revere Doll House and Furniture 73 Pc Vintage Wood Accessories Miniatures

Located in Dayton, OH

plant, flowering plant, 2 chairs, set tea table Attic room 2 - Harp, piano, stool, music stand, cello

Category

20th Century American Colonial Toys

Materials

Other

Paul Revere Doll House and Furniture 73 Pc Vintage Wood Accessories Miniatures

H 34.25 in W 16.75 in D 29.5 in

Green Borghese Sofa, Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

'Naturoscopie' collection for Galerie Bsl: a shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Green Borghese Sofa, Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33.47 in W 74.02 in D 32.68 in

Borghese Sofa Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese” sofa for La Chance, new French editor

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Borghese Sofa Noé Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33.47 in W 97.64 in D 29.93 in

Special Edition Pierre Frey Fabric, Borghese Long Sofa, Duchaufour Lawrance

By Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance

Located in Geneve, CH

shelf, four wall lamps, three ceiling fixtures, two coffee tables, a mirror, a table light “Borghese

Category

2010s French Organic Modern Sofas

Materials

Wool

Special Edition Pierre Frey Fabric, Borghese Long Sofa, Duchaufour Lawrance

H 33.47 in W 97.64 in D 35.04 in

Antique Round Wood Folding Vineyard Table Found in France

Located in Houston, TX

This trestle-style Vineyard table is a remarkably compact package, folding easily for storage and

Category

Early 20th Century French Dessert Tables and Tilt-top Tables

Materials

Wood

Antique Round Wood Folding Vineyard Table Found in France

H 27 in Dm 30 in

Tables Under $2,000

Antique and Vintage Tables

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Harp Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the harp coffee table you’re looking for at 1stDibs. A harp coffee table — often made from metal, fabric and glass — can elevate any home. If you’re shopping for a harp coffee table, we have 11 options in-stock, while there are 12 modern editions to choose from as well. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer harp coffee table, there are earlier versions available from the 20th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A harp coffee table is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in mid-century modern, modern and Hollywood Regency styles are sought with frequency. Many designers have produced at least one well-made harp coffee table over the years, but those crafted by Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance, Slim Aarons and Design Institute America are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Harp Coffee Table?

Prices for a harp coffee table start at $840 and top out at $39,557 with the average selling for $6,822.

Questions About Harp Coffee Table

Who invented the coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024
No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.

Notably, F. Stuart Foote, the designer behind the American Imperial Furniture Company, claimed to have invented the coffee table in the early 20th century. He stated that he did so by cutting down the legs of a dining table. However, it's unlikely that Foote is the actual inventor of the coffee table, as books describing coffee tables existed in the UK a decade before his birth in 1872.

Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Is an ottoman a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What size should a coffee table be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
A coffee table should generally be two-thirds as long as the sofa it stands in front of and around the same height as the sofa’s seat cushions.
Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.
What is the difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
While both pieces are relatively new to the furniture world, the main difference between them are their shapes. A cocktail table is generally square or rectangular in shape, while a coffee table tends to be oval or circular in shape. You can shop a collection of furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a sofa table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
The difference between a sofa table and a coffee table is that a sofa table is always behind the sofa and a coffee table is in front of it. Additionally, a sofa table is the same height as the sofa and a coffee table is much shorter.
Are end tables taller than coffee tables?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables.

The term “end table” is frequently used interchangeably with “coffee table,” and while these two furnishings have much in common, each table type offers its own distinctive benefits in your space.

Your end table is likely going to stand as tall as the arms of your sofa, and its depth will match the seating. These attributes allow for tucking the table neatly at the end of your sofa in order to provide an elevated surface between your seating and the wall. End tables are accent pieces — they’re a close cousin to side tables, but side tables, not unlike the show-stealing low-profile coffee table, are intended to be positioned prominently and have more to do with the flow and design of a room than an end table, which does a great job but does it out of the way of everything else.

Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.
What is a tray top coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
Tray top coffee tables are coffee tables with long, flat rectangular surfaces that are supported by an x-frame base. Low tables that were initially used as tea or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. After coffee drinking and “coffee breaks” became popular, it didn’t take long for coffee and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary tray top coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Styling a Noguchi coffee table really depends on the space you’re placing it in. The possibilities are far-reaching, so consider the colors and coordination of the other furniture and fixtures around the table. Noguchi tables look beautiful on their own or styled with flowers, books or pottery. Shop a selection of Isamu Noguchi pieces on 1stDibs.
How much does a coffee table cost?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.
How do you style an oval coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To style an oval coffee table, create balance with opposites. Choose a sofa and accent chairs with a boxier shape for a striking contrast. Place a rectangular tray in the center and use it to display decorative accents or to store remotes and coasters. Another approach to decorating an oval table is to use decorative accents at different heights. Think of a tall vase placed next to a low bowl and a small sculpture positioned on top of two stacked coffee table books. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oval coffee tables.
What is the standard size of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do you stack books on a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, a coffee table should generally be lower than a couch. However, the top of the table should only be slightly lower than the couch to maintain a balanced look. A good rule of thumb is to choose a table no more than one inch shorter than your sofa's seat height. Explore a large collection of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is the average height of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
The average height of a coffee table is around 16 to 18 inches. Designers typically choose this height to create a balance between coffee tables and sofas. The average seat height of sofas is 17 to 18 inches, and experts typically recommend that coffee tables be no more than 1 inch shorter than sofa-seat height. Explore a diverse assortment of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is the best coffee table for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
The best coffee table for a sectional can be a round coffee table, particularly with respect to U-shaped sectionals. The circular design creates a sense of balance in small spaces and renders it easy for guests to move to and fro, especially when surrounded by chairs. Find a collection of antique and vintage coffee tables on 1stDibs today.
How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is a tall coffee table called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
A tall coffee table is usually called exactly that — a tall coffee table. Coffee tables, also referred to as cocktail tables, are generally designed to sit at or below the sofa's seat height. These tables may come in a range of sizes, but they are often between 16 and 18 inches high and are designed in a variety of lengths and widths. They’re meant to provide a practical table-top surface that complements your living room layout. (A tall version might also be suitable for use as a dining table.) Shop a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary tall coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
Why are modern coffee tables so low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Modern coffee tables tend to be low because they’re most commonly placed in front of couches and chairs. Historically, coffee tables were placed behind the couch which necessitated a taller table. Over time, as styles changed and coffee tables came to be positioned in front of couches, their heights were lowered to accommodate the modern arrangement. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage and contemporary coffee tables from some of the world’s top sellers.