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 Vintage Couches & Sofas on 1stDibs
Vintage MCM Tuxedo Sofa Jack Lenor Larsen Velvet Fabric Attr Milo Baughman 96"
Located in Wilton, CT
Fabulous vintage MCM Tuxedo style sofa in super plush Jack Lenor Larsen velvet fabric, possibly designed by Milo Baughman. This chevron patterned sofa in ...
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Velvet
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
Vico Magistretti Maralunga 40 Maxi Sofa for Cassina, Italy
Located in grand Lancy, CH
Vico Magistretti Maralunga 40 Maxi Sofa for Cassina, Italy
Category
Vintage 1980s Italian Sofas
Materials
Leather
Danish 1940s Large Curved Banana Shape Sofa in Original Green Mohair
Located in Bridgeport, CT
Large banana shaped or curved sofa made in Denmark, circa 1940. This sofa will make strong statement in any room. Beautiful round voluptuous lines and with large bun feet providing a...
Category
Vintage 1940s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Wool, Beech
Poltrona Frau 'Cocker' Three-Seat Sofa in Brown Leather by Franco Bresciani
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Three-seat 'Cocker' sofa designed by Franco Bresciani for Poltrona Frau, produced in the late 1970s. Upholstered in medium brown leather, a hallmark material of Poltrona Frau, the so...
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Leather, Upholstery
Early Pierre Chapo 'L09I' Sofa or Bench in Solid Elm
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Pierre Chapo, bench or sofa, model 'L09I', elm, fabric, France, 1975
Dating from 1975, this piece is an early example designed by Pierre Chapo, known for his commitment to pure and ...
Category
Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Fabric, Elm

