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
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Shop for Coffee Tables and Cocktail Tables on 1stDibs
Roger Capron Pair of Coffee Tables 'Mambo' with Ceramic Tiles
By Roger Capron
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Roger Capron, 'Mambo' coffee tables, model 'TN12', ceramic, stained wood, France, 1970
The Mambo coffee table by French ceramicist Roger Capron is a distinctive expression of his a...
Category
Vintage 1970s French Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Ceramic
Roger Capron Rare 'Alouette' Coffee Table with Ceramic Tiles
By Roger Capron
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Roger Capron, 'Alouette' coffee table, ceramic brown tiles, beech, France, 1960s
A striking and rare coffee table by Roger Capron, model 'Alouette', crafted in France. The design c...
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Ceramic, Beech
Early and Rare Ado Chale 'Relief d'Agate' Coffee Table in Cast Bronze
By Ado Chale
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Ado Chale, early 'Relief d'Agate' coffee table, cast bronze, lacquered steel, Belgium, ca. 1974
This exceptionally rare Relief d’Agate coffee table, dating from circa 1974, is an ea...
Category
Vintage 1970s Belgian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Bronze, Steel
Roger Capron Coffee Table with Botanical Ceramic Tiles in Beige and Brown
By Roger Capron
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Roger Capron, coffee table, ceramic, beech, France, 1970s
This table is another exquisite example of Roger Capron’s work, showcasing a rectangular tabletop composed of his preferred...
Category
Vintage 1970s French Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Ceramic, Beech
Gae Aulenti Bicycle Tour Coffee Table.
By Gae Aulenti
Located in Čelinac, BA
Gae Aulenti Bicycle Tour Coffee Table
Category
Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Chrome
Italian Mid-Century Modern Modular Coffee Table in Wood
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Coffee table, beech, Italy, 1960s
This Italian coffee table combines a clean, architectural shape with an inventive, adaptable design. Its square beech frame is divided into four co...
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Beech