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
Large Mid-Century Italian Curved Six Seat Sofa in Rust Red Upholstery
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Curved six seat sofa, fabric, beech, Italy, circa 1950
This beautiful Italian sofa follows a generous sweeping curve, creating an intimate seating arrangement with room for six. Its...
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Fabric, Beech
Settebello Modular Gray Sofa by Lorenza Bozzoli
By Ghidini 1961
Located in Milan, IT
A sculptural lounge piece by Lorenza Bozzoli, defined by its generous proportions and sinuous, enveloping silhouette. The plush velvet upholstery in Cayenne red is enlivened by deep ...
Category
2010s Italian Modern Sofas
Materials
Textile
$54,155 / item
Modern English Sofa in a Heavy Weight Stone Washed Natural Linen & Down Cushion
Located in Old Town Orange, CA
Modern English Arm Sofa
Introducing the English Arm Sofa, crafted with heavy weight hemp boasting a soft hand feel for added luxury. This sofa features a down feather wrapped seat cu...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Sofas
Materials
Linen, Wood, Down
Georgian Nicely Carved Mahogany Upholstered Loveseat
Located in Perkasie, PA
Georgian Chippendale Style Carved Mahogany Upholstered Loveseat – 74814
This elegant Georgian-style loveseat dates to approximately 30 years old and showcases the distinguished craf...
Category
Vintage 1980s Georgian Sofas
Materials
Upholstery, Mahogany
Saporiti Large Post-Modern Sofa in Structured Turquoise Upholstery
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Saporiti, sofa, fabric, metal, Italy, 1970s
Large sofa manufactured by Saporiti. This sofa is designed to be comfortable, soft and inviting. It has three seats with round sloping ar...
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Sofas
Materials
Metal
Curved Yellow Velvet 3-Seater Sofa by Gio Ponti, Italy 1940's
By Gio Ponti
Located in Miami, FL
This rare three-seater curved "banana" designed by the Italian modernist architect Gio Ponti for Casa e Giardino. While his work extended well into the post-war era, this iconic des...
Category
Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Fabric, Wood
