Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
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.
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Related Questions
- Who invented the coffee table?1 Answer
- Is an ottoman a coffee table?1 Answer
- What size should a coffee table be?1 Answer
- What is the difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?1 Answer
- What is the difference between a sofa table and a coffee table?1 Answer
Shop for Coffee and Cocktail Tables on 1stDibs
Mid-Century Modern Round Chinoiserie Coffee Table by Philip and Kelvin LaVerne
Located in Miami, FL
Mid-Century Modern round chinoiserie coffee table
by Philip and Kelvin LaVerne
USA circa 1960
"Chan" model, circular coffee table, executed in etched pewter and bronze with hand-pai...
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Brass, Bronze, Pewter
Coffee Table in Stone Composite by Mike Ruiz-Serra
Located in New York, NY
Quad Table, cast in stone composite. It features a bright white color and a matte finish achieved through a blend of marble dust and resin. This innovative composition enhances durab...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Composition
Mid Century Petala Table, Attributed to Jorge Zalszupin
Located in New York, NY
Original Petala Coffee Table, a masterpiece designed by Brazilian designer Jorge Zalszupin. Crafted from Pau Ferro, this table embodies sophistication.
This coffee table has been we...
Category
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Hardwood
Isamu Noguchi Coffee Table, USA 1950's
Located in New York, NY
Early Classic Noguchi IN 50 table in black stained Cherry and vintage apple green glass, aluminum connecting pin present.
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Aluminum
K'ang Hsi Coffee Table by Rose Tarlow "Melrose House"
By Emilio Roselli
Located in New York, NY
K'ang Hsi Coffee Table by Rose Tarlow 'Melrose House,' Chinese style with intricate black lacquer and hand-painted gold leaf flowers.
Featuring a unique design with turned-up sides...
Category
Vintage 1970s American Neoclassical Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Fruitwood
Italian Coffee Table in Travertine and Facet Cut Glass, 1980s
Located in Oud Beijerland, NL
Very nice Italian coffee or side table handcrafted out of travertine, 1980s.
It is made of beautiful travertine.
Please take notice of the very nice patterns.
The oval shaped pl...
Category
Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Travertine
