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Questions & Answers
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
Roger Capron Pair of Coffee Tables 'Mambo' with Ceramic Tiles
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
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
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
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.
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

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