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Why is it called a sofa?

1 Answer
Why is it called a sofa?
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
Shop for Sofas on 1stDibs
Howard Keith for HK Furniture 'Diplomat' Sofa
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

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

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