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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

Why is it called a coffee table?

1 Answer
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.

1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Japanese 18th Century Style Lacquered Coffee Table With Scenes of Horses
Located in Stamford, CT
Japanese style equestrian themed lacquered square coffee table with a lift top that opens to a large storage area. The top and sides decorated with decoupage equestrian scenes of ind...
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Antique 18th-Century Rustic Spanish Warm Honey Color Chestnut Coffee Table
Located in Casteren, NL
This Spanish coffee table, crafted from solid chestnut wood, is a beautiful example of functional yet elegant craftsmanship from the first half of the 19th century. The table reflect...
Category

Antique Late 18th Century Spanish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Jane & Gordon Martz, Coffee Table, Ceramic, Walnut, USA, 1960s
Located in High Point, NC
A walnut and green brown beige ceramic tile coffee table designed by Jane & Gordon Martz and produced by Marshall Studios, USA, c. 1960s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 16.5"H x 47.75...
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ceramic, Walnut

Set of 3 Stack 880 Amber Glass Modular Coffee Table by Niccolò Devetag
Located in Milan, IT
Stack 880 by Niccolò Devetag is a modular collection of colorful blown-glass coffee tables designed with flexibility in mind. Its amber hue interacts elegantly with light, producing ...
Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Ramorana Wrought Iron Small Round Brown Outdoor Table by Dante Negro
Located in Milan, IT
A fascinating solution for enjoying the pleasure of an outdoor breakfast or aperitif, this small round table was designed with femininity and resistance in mind. Rich in sinuous curv...
Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

New Modern Coffee Table in Black Marquinia marble, Designer Ivan Colominas
Located in Milan, IT
Coffee Table in Black Marquinia marble Size: 182.5 x 72.5 x 40.5 cm. - 71.86 x 28.5 x 15.9 in. Commercial name: Nissa Coffee Table in Black Marquinia, Nissa Collection by the Span...
Category

2010s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

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