Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why is it called a sofa?
1 Answer

Why it is called a sofa is due to the history of the term. Sofa originated from the Arabic word soffa, which describes a low seat covered with plush pillows. French makers began producing their own versions of these furnishings in the 17th century, and by the 18th century, they had spread to other areas in Europe and were being referred to as sofas. Find a wide variety of sofas on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
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Shop for Sofas on 1stDibs
Howard Keith for HK Furniture 'Diplomat' Sofa
By Howard Keith
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Howard Keith for HK Furniture, 'Diplomat' sofa, velvet, chrome-plated steel, United Kingdom, 1970s
The ‘Diplomat’ sofa, designed by Howard Keith, exemplifies the sophisticated comfo...
Category
Vintage 1970s British Post-Modern Sofas
Materials
Steel, Chrome
Unique Jacob Kjaer Sofa in Original Niger Leather and Mahogany
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Jacob Kjaer, sofa, original Niger leather, brass, stained mahogany, Denmark, 1930s
Exemplifying the quintessential essence of Danish design of the thirties, this rare sofa by Jacob...
Category
Vintage 1930s Danish Scandinavian Modern Sofas
Materials
Brass
Carmelo Angular Red-Fabric Sofa
Located in Milan, IT
Subtly statuesque, this modular sofa is sure to take center stage in wide living areas thanks to its clean yet generous volumes sealed by removable red fabric upholstery. The fir and...
Category
2010s Italian Sofas
Materials
Textile
$19,640 / item
1940s Danish Sofa with Sculptural Frame in White Wool
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Sofa, reupholstered in "Gabriel" wool by Savak, stained beech, Denmark, 1940s
This charming sofa, newly reupholstered in a fine woolen white fabric, is designed in the manner of Da...
Category
Vintage 1940s Danish Scandinavian Modern Sofas
Materials
Wool, Beech
Massimo and Lella Vignelli for 'Saratoga' Sofa Reupholstered in Beige Velvet
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Massimo and Lella Vignelli for Poltronova, 'Saratoga' four-seat sofa, velvet, polyester lacquered wood, Italy, 1964.
This four-seat sofa named 'Saratoga' is designed by Italian desi...
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Post-Modern Sofas
Materials
Velvet, Wood, Lacquer
Adrian Pearsall Grand Boomerang Sofa in Grey Pierre Frey Bouclé
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Adrian Pearsall for Craft Associates, 'Boomerang' sofa, model '1600-S', Pierre Frey 'Louison' bouclé, walnut, United States, 1960s
This exceptional Boomerang sofa, designed by Adria...
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Bouclé, Walnut
