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African Senufo Tribe Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vintage Senufo tribe table carved out of a wood trunk. Appropriate wear commensurate with age.
Category

Mid-20th Century Malian Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

African Senufo Tribe Table
African Senufo Tribe Table

African Senufo Tribe Table

$2,730
Primitive Pine Coffee Table From France, Circa 1850
Located in Nashville, TN
Primitive Pine Coffee Table From France, Circa 1850. Solid pine construction with nice wear and
Category

Antique 1850s Side Tables

Materials

Pine

Primitive Pine Coffee Table From France, Circa 1850
Primitive Pine Coffee Table From France, Circa 1850

Primitive Pine Coffee Table From France, Circa 1850

$2,600
Japanese Antique Primitive Sofa Table 1860s-1900s / Coffee Table wabisabi
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
This is a very old Japanese primitive style sofa table. It is a simple style with a wooden board on
Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sofa Tables

Materials

Wood, Chestnut

Japanese Antique Primitive Sofa Table 1860s-1900s / Coffee Table wabisabi
Japanese Antique Primitive Sofa Table 1860s-1900s / Coffee Table wabisabi

Japanese Antique Primitive Sofa Table 1860s-1900s / Coffee Table wabisabi

$2,000
Japanese Antique Coffee Table 1860s-1900s/Primitive Exhibition Stand Mingei
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
It is an old Japanese coffee table. It is an item from the Meiji era (1860s-1920s). The stump
Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Tables

Materials

Wood, Cedar

Japanese Antique Coffee Table 1860s-1900s/Primitive Exhibition Stand Mingei
Japanese Antique Coffee Table 1860s-1900s/Primitive Exhibition Stand Mingei

Japanese Antique Coffee Table 1860s-1900s/Primitive Exhibition Stand Mingei

$3,500
Antique Senufo Bed, Mali
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Antique wooden tribal bed carved out of one piece of wood. Conical legs, headrest and carved detail on top. Beautiful, worn wood, lovely dark patina. Senufo tribe, Mali. Legs and top...
Category

Early 20th Century Malian Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Antique Senufo Bed, Mali
Antique Senufo Bed, Mali

Antique Senufo Bed, Mali

$7,670
Japanese Antique Primitive Side Table 1860s-1920s / Coffee Table Wabi Sabi
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
This is an old primitive style side table made in Japan. This furniture was made in the Meiji
Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Side Tables

Materials

Wood

Japanese Antique Primitive Side Table 1860s-1920s / Coffee Table Wabi Sabi
Japanese Antique Primitive Side Table 1860s-1920s / Coffee Table Wabi Sabi

Japanese Antique Primitive Side Table 1860s-1920s / Coffee Table Wabi Sabi

$1,300
Reclaimed Primitive Wood Bench or Coffee Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
made more recently. Very heavy. Entry bench for modern home or coffee table. Could be used at foot
Category

20th Century Primitive Benches

Materials

Wood

Reclaimed Primitive Wood Bench or Coffee Table
Reclaimed Primitive Wood Bench or Coffee Table

Reclaimed Primitive Wood Bench or Coffee Table

$4,886
Japanese Wooden block table /wabi-sabi coffee table/1900s〜
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
touch of elegance to your life. It is large enough to be used as a coffee table for two to three people
Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Primitive Side Tables

Materials

Wood

Japanese Wooden block table /wabi-sabi coffee table/1900s〜
Japanese Wooden block table /wabi-sabi coffee table/1900s〜

Japanese Wooden block table /wabi-sabi coffee table/1900s〜

$1,300
Japanese Wooden block table /wabi-sabi coffee table/1900s〜
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
About This table was made from a mortar that was used to pound rice cakes in ancient times. The
Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Primitive Side Tables

Materials

Wood

Japanese Wooden block table /wabi-sabi coffee table/1900s〜
Japanese Wooden block table /wabi-sabi coffee table/1900s〜

Japanese Wooden block table /wabi-sabi coffee table/1900s〜

$2,500
Japanese Antique Low Table 1860s-1900s / Sofa Table Primitive Wabi Sabi Mingei
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
Very old Japanese primitive style coffee table. Simple design with a single board on a stump
Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sofa Tables

Materials

Wood

Japanese Antique Low Table 1860s-1900s / Sofa Table Primitive Wabi Sabi Mingei
Japanese Antique Low Table 1860s-1900s / Sofa Table Primitive Wabi Sabi Mingei

Japanese Antique Low Table 1860s-1900s / Sofa Table Primitive Wabi Sabi Mingei

$2,250
Japanese Antique Large Low Table 1860s-1920s / Coffee Table Wabi Sabi
By Axel Vervoordt
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
, or coffee table. From this item, one senses the spirit of wabi-sabi, the Japanese philosophy of
Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Primitive Sofa Tables

Materials

Wood

Japanese Antique Large Low Table 1860s-1920s / Coffee Table Wabi Sabi
Japanese Antique Large Low Table 1860s-1920s / Coffee Table Wabi Sabi

Japanese Antique Large Low Table 1860s-1920s / Coffee Table Wabi Sabi

$2,500
Antique Handmade Primitive Rustic Cabin Live Edge Pine Slab Bench Coffee Table
Located in Dayton, OH
A beautiful antique live edge handmade pine bench. A nice slab with pegged legs. Great for indoor and outdoor use.    
Category

Early 20th Century Rustic Benches

Materials

Pine

Antique Handmade Primitive Rustic Cabin Live Edge Pine Slab Bench Coffee Table
Antique Handmade Primitive Rustic Cabin Live Edge Pine Slab Bench Coffee Table

Antique Handmade Primitive Rustic Cabin Live Edge Pine Slab Bench Coffee Table

$800
Mahogany Wood African Bench or Coffee Table
Located in New York, NY
Antique bench or coffee table carved from a single piece of mahogany wood. This bench or coffee
Category

Vintage 1960s African Primitive Benches

Materials

Wood, Mahogany, Reclaimed Wood

Mahogany Wood African Bench or Coffee Table
Mahogany Wood African Bench or Coffee Table

Mahogany Wood African Bench or Coffee Table

$1,290
Andrianna Shamaris Iroko Wood African Bench or Coffee Table
By Andrianna Shamaris
Located in New York, NY
Antique bench or coffee table carved from a single piece of iroko wood, native to the west coast of
Category

Antique Early 1900s Primitive Benches

Materials

Wood, Reclaimed Wood

Andrianna Shamaris Iroko Wood African Bench or Coffee Table
Andrianna Shamaris Iroko Wood African Bench or Coffee Table

Andrianna Shamaris Iroko Wood African Bench or Coffee Table

$1,590
Andrianna Shamaris Teak Wood Wabi-Sabi Bench or Coffee Table
Located in New York, NY
Antique 1.5” single slab teak wood bench, coffee table or shelf with a beautiful patina and carved
Category

Antique Early 1900s Primitive Benches

Materials

Wood, Teak, Reclaimed Wood

Andrianna Shamaris Teak Wood Wabi-Sabi Bench or Coffee Table

Andrianna Shamaris Teak Wood Wabi-Sabi Bench or Coffee Table

$1,980
Wabi Sabi Primitive Rustic Bench, France, 19th Century
Located in Antwerp, BE
Primitive rustic bench or coffee table made of sturdy wood with a weathered finish. The natural
Category

Antique 19th Century French Brutalist Benches

Materials

Wood

Wabi Sabi Primitive Rustic Bench, France, 19th Century
Wabi Sabi Primitive Rustic Bench, France, 19th Century

Wabi Sabi Primitive Rustic Bench, France, 19th Century

$3,650
French Primitive Coffee Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
French Primitive coffee table with splayed legs. The wooden top has beautiful gnarled details.
Category

Antique 1890s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

French Primitive Coffee Table
French Primitive Coffee Table

French Primitive Coffee Table

$2,400
French Primitive Coffee Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
French Primitive coffee table with splayed legs. The wooden top has beautiful gnarled details.
Category

Antique 1890s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

French Primitive Coffee Table
French Primitive Coffee Table

French Primitive Coffee Table

$2,400
Primitive Coffee Table of Barn Wood with Hand-Lettered Signs from Tree Farm
Located in Madison, WI
Primitive coffee table from a tree farm display has been made from old barn wood and inset with
Category

Mid-20th Century American Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Primitive Coffee Table of Barn Wood with Hand-Lettered Signs from Tree Farm
Primitive Coffee Table of Barn Wood with Hand-Lettered Signs from Tree Farm

Primitive Coffee Table of Barn Wood with Hand-Lettered Signs from Tree Farm

$575
Primitive Coffee Table
Located in Houston, TX
French oak coffee table from the 19th century.
Category

Antique 19th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Primitive Coffee Table
Primitive Coffee Table

Primitive Coffee Table

$6,400
Large Primitive Coffee Table
Located in San Francisco, CA
This extra long coffee table will stand out in any space. The piece has a distressed aged look to
Category

Early 20th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Large Primitive Coffee Table
Large Primitive Coffee Table

Large Primitive Coffee Table

$3,600
Round Primitive Coffee Table
Located in Atlanta, GA
Unique rustic unfinished wood plank top.
Base and top seperate.
Very sturdy.
Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Round Primitive Coffee Table
Round Primitive Coffee Table

Round Primitive Coffee Table

$2,250
SenufoTable
Located in Southampton, NY
Dark wood low primitive coffee table/stool.
Category

Late 20th Century African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

SenufoTable
SenufoTable

SenufoTable

$1,250
“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Penny Six- Light Stain
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Measures : W76 D24 H11 This beautifully made coffee table has just landed in a light brown stain
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Penny Six- Light Stain
“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Penny Six- Light Stain

“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Penny Six- Light Stain

$1,300
“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Six Penny- Light Stain- San Francisco
Located in Los Angeles, CA
W76 D24 H11 This beautifully made coffee table has just landed in a light brown stain. There are
Category

2010s Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Six Penny- Light Stain- San Francisco
“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Six Penny- Light Stain- San Francisco

“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Six Penny- Light Stain- San Francisco

$1,200
Primitive Oak Coffee Table
Located in Houston, TX
French oak 19th c coffee table, large scale.
Category

Antique 19th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Primitive Oak Coffee Table
Primitive Oak Coffee Table

Primitive Oak Coffee Table

$5,700
Early American Primitive Bench or Coffee Table
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Early American bench or low coffee table. Originally functioned as a laundry bench with a tilted
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Pine

Early American Primitive Bench or Coffee Table
Early American Primitive Bench or Coffee Table

Early American Primitive Bench or Coffee Table

$550
Primitive Round Wood Coffee Table
Located in New York, NY
Unusual Primitive Round Wood Coffee Table on Rustic Log Legs 46" Dia x 20" H Belgian
Category

Vintage 1950s Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Primitive Round Wood Coffee Table
Primitive Round Wood Coffee Table

Primitive Round Wood Coffee Table

$2,800
Primitive Teak and Rattan Coffee Table
Located in San Francisco, CA
Old Teak recycled into a coffee table.
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indonesian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Primitive Teak and Rattan Coffee Table
Primitive Teak and Rattan Coffee Table

Primitive Teak and Rattan Coffee Table

$860
Antique Wooden Rustic Primitive Rectangular Coffee Table
Located in Dorchester, GB
A antique primitively made wooden coffee table. The chunky three plank top, sits on-top of solid
Category

Early 20th Century British Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood

Antique Wooden Rustic Primitive Rectangular Coffee Table
Antique Wooden Rustic Primitive Rectangular Coffee Table

Antique Wooden Rustic Primitive Rectangular Coffee Table

$1,239
Primitive French Wooden Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Primitive French wooden table with four splayed legs. The wood is old and offers unique grain.
Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Primitive French Wooden Table
Primitive French Wooden Table

Primitive French Wooden Table

$2,400
American Primitive Table or Bench
Located in Essex, MA
An American Primitive table or bench in carved hardwood, circa 1880s, the thick, solid plank top
Category

Antique 1880s American Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood

American Primitive Table or Bench
American Primitive Table or Bench

American Primitive Table or Bench

$2,200
Primitive Low Table
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
Rustic low table of primitive construction. Cypress wood. All original with old mends.
Category

Antique 19th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Primitive Low Table
Primitive Low Table

Primitive Low Table

Antique 19th Century Primitive Country French Coffee/ Side Table
Located in Pasadena, CA
Great little19th century French Country Table Unique shape Beautiful aged details of 1920's
Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Country Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Antique 19th Century Primitive Country French Coffee/ Side Table
Antique 19th Century Primitive Country French Coffee/ Side Table

Antique 19th Century Primitive Country French Coffee/ Side Table

$2,200
Primitive Wooden Geese Table
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Four painted geese supporting glass table top. A quirky one of a kind table perfect for a lake
Category

20th Century Unknown Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Primitive Wooden Geese Table
Primitive Wooden Geese Table

Primitive Wooden Geese Table

$1,600
PRIMITIVE ITALIAN COBBLER TABLE
Located in Los Angeles, CA
RARE ITALIAN COBBLER TABLE. THE PATINA ON THE WALNUT ADDS TO THE CHARACTER OF THIS PIECE, AMAZING
Category

Antique 19th Century Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Walnut

PRIMITIVE ITALIAN COBBLER TABLE
PRIMITIVE ITALIAN COBBLER TABLE

PRIMITIVE ITALIAN COBBLER TABLE

$5,300
English Low Primitive Wood Table
Located in High Point, NC
English Low Primitive Wood Table
Category

Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

English Low Primitive Wood Table
English Low Primitive Wood Table

English Low Primitive Wood Table

$3,750
A Long Primitive Bed/Low Table
Located in Miami, FL
coffee table and a great addition to a contemporary space.
Category

20th Century African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

A Long Primitive Bed/Low Table
A Long Primitive Bed/Low Table

A Long Primitive Bed/Low Table

$4,400
Leather Patchwork Coffee Table
Located in Seattle, WA
Primitive homemade coffee table covered and wrapped in pieces of brown leather, secured by rusted
Category

Mid-20th Century American Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Leather, Wood

Leather Patchwork Coffee Table
Leather Patchwork Coffee Table

Leather Patchwork Coffee Table

$340
Antique Large Rustic Coffee Table
Located in Chicago, IL
Great antique large rustic coffee table.
Category

Antique 19th Century American Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Antique Large Rustic Coffee Table
Antique Large Rustic Coffee Table

Antique Large Rustic Coffee Table

$2,800
Belgian Primitive Black Iron Sculptural Leg Table/Bench
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vintage Primitive black iron sculptural leg table with old growth hardwood table surface. Smooth
Category

Early 20th Century Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Belgian Primitive Black Iron Sculptural Leg Table/Bench
Belgian Primitive Black Iron Sculptural Leg Table/Bench

Belgian Primitive Black Iron Sculptural Leg Table/Bench

$1,800
Massive Primitive Trunk
Located in Santa Rosa, CA
Great Looking large rustic trunk with hide, wood,iron and leather. This would make a great coffee
Category

Antique 19th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hide

Massive Primitive Trunk
Massive Primitive Trunk

Massive Primitive Trunk

$4,500
One of a Kind French Butcher Block Coffee Table
Located in Seattle, WA
This is an incredibly unique and one of a kind coffee table from France. The top is a thick wood
Category

Antique 1860s French Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

One of a Kind French Butcher Block Coffee Table
One of a Kind French Butcher Block Coffee Table

One of a Kind French Butcher Block Coffee Table

$3,950
Coffee table
Located in Houston, TX
primitive European wood coffee table
Category

Antique 19th Century European Side Tables

Materials

Wood

Coffee table
Coffee table

Coffee table

$2,135
Coffee Table/Side Table from Trough Used as Salt Lick for Deer and Cows
Located in Madison, WI
Side table or coffee table from trough roughhewn by hand. Used as salt lick for deer and cows
Category

Antique Late 19th Century American Primitive End Tables

Materials

Wood

Coffee Table/Side Table from Trough Used as Salt Lick for Deer and Cows
Coffee Table/Side Table from Trough Used as Salt Lick for Deer and Cows

Coffee Table/Side Table from Trough Used as Salt Lick for Deer and Cows

$790
Large Primitive Industrial Early Bench or Coffee Table
Located in Pasadena, CA
Large Primitive Bench Long bench, circa 1910. Could be used as a coffee table. 17.5" H x 84" W x
Category

Vintage 1910s North American Industrial Benches

Large Primitive Industrial Early Bench or Coffee Table
Large Primitive Industrial Early Bench or Coffee Table

Large Primitive Industrial Early Bench or Coffee Table

$1,200
Single Plank Bench or Coffee Table
Located in Bridgehampton, NY
Primitive single plank bench or coffee table with fantastic age patina.
Category

Early 20th Century American Benches

Single Plank Bench or Coffee Table
Single Plank Bench or Coffee Table

Single Plank Bench or Coffee Table

$2,800
Primitive Coffee Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Unique primitive coffee table with rustic top with unique wood grain.
Category

Early 20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Primitive Coffee Table
Primitive Coffee Table

Primitive Coffee Table

$2,200
Primitive Coffee Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Unique primitive coffee table with rustic top and four splayed legs.
Category

Early 20th Century Card Tables and Tea Tables

Materials

Wood

Primitive Coffee Table
Primitive Coffee Table

Primitive Coffee Table

$3,200
Rustic Primitive Coffee Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
W39 D29 H18 Vintage coffee table with a rustic design with signs of wear adding to its charm
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Rustic Primitive Coffee Table
Rustic Primitive Coffee Table

Rustic Primitive Coffee Table

$1,100
“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Six Penny- Ebony Stain
Located in Los Angeles, CA
W76 D24 H11 This beautifully made coffee table has just landed in a dark brown ebony like stain
Category

2010s Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Six Penny- Ebony Stain
“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Six Penny- Ebony Stain

“Theo” Primitive Coffee Table by Six Penny- Ebony Stain

$1,320
Moroccan Carved Wood Primitive Vintage Coffee Table
Located in Oakland Park, FL
Offered by the Antique Textiles Galleries: Moroccan carved wood Primitive vintage coffee table or
Category

Antique 19th Century Moroccan Moorish Ottomans and Poufs

Materials

Wood

Moroccan Carved Wood Primitive Vintage Coffee Table
Moroccan Carved Wood Primitive Vintage Coffee Table

Moroccan Carved Wood Primitive Vintage Coffee Table

$1,450
Primitive, Light Brown Barrel Coffee Table evocative of Axel Vervoodt
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Dramatic, low-flog barrel coffee table with even patina evocative of Axel Vervoodt.
Category

Mid-20th Century Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Birch

Primitive, Light Brown Barrel Coffee Table evocative of Axel Vervoodt
Primitive, Light Brown Barrel Coffee Table evocative of Axel Vervoodt

Primitive, Light Brown Barrel Coffee Table evocative of Axel Vervoodt

$2,400
Large Primitive Teak Low Table
Located in Austin, TX
A massive teak single board table, possibly from a temple, circa early 20th century, India. The top
Category

Early 20th Century Indian Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Large Primitive Teak Low Table
Large Primitive Teak Low Table

Large Primitive Teak Low Table

$1,200
Primitive Low Bench
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Primitive low bench with great character. Also an excellent coffee table candidate.
Category

Antique 19th Century Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Primitive Low Bench
Primitive Low Bench

Primitive Low Bench

$795
African Zebra Hide Drum Coffee or Side Table
Located in North Hollywood, CA
A fantastic zebra drum with legs and handles, suitable for a coffee table or side table. The zebra
Category

Vintage 1950s African Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Zebra Hide

African Zebra Hide Drum Coffee or Side Table
African Zebra Hide Drum Coffee or Side Table

African Zebra Hide Drum Coffee or Side Table

$1,250
Primitive 115 Epoxy Resin Coffee Table
Located in Union City, NJ
The Primitive integrates the finest wood from responsibly managed forests in Turkey with
Category

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Epoxy Resin

Primitive 115 Epoxy Resin Coffee Table
Primitive 115 Epoxy Resin Coffee Table

Primitive 115 Epoxy Resin Coffee Table

$2,800
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Primitive Coffee Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of primitive coffee tables is available at 1stDibs. The range of distinct primitive coffee tables — often made from wood, hardwood and reclaimed wood — can elevate any home. There are 164 antique and vintage primitive coffee tables for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 8 modern editions to choose from as well. Primitive coffee tables have long been popular, with older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. Mid-Century Modern, Industrial and Folk Art primitive coffee tables are consistently popular styles. Many primitive coffee tables are appealing in their simplicity, but Andrianna Shamaris and Witco produced popular primitive coffee tables that are worth a look.

How Much are Primitive Coffee Tables?

Primitive coffee tables can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $2,600, while the lowest priced sells for $495 and the highest can go for as much as $9,500.

Finding the Right Coffee-tables-cocktail-tables for You

As a practical focal point in your living area, antique and vintage coffee tables and cocktail tables are an invaluable addition to any interior.

Low tables that were initially used as tea tables or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. Early coffee tables surfaced in Victorian-era England, likely influenced by the use of tea tables in Japanese tea gardens. In the United States, furniture makers worked to introduce low, long tables into their offerings as the popularity of coffee and “coffee breaks” took hold during the late 19th century and early 20th century.

It didn’t take long for coffee tables and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Originally, these tables were as simple as they are practical — as high as your sofa and made primarily of wood. In recent years, however, metal, glass and plastics have become popular in coffee tables and cocktail tables, and design hasn’t been restricted to the conventional low profile, either.

Visionary craftspeople such as Paul Evans introduced bold, geometric designs that challenge the traditional idea of what a coffee table can be. The elongated rectangles and wide boxy forms of Evans’s desirable Cityscape coffee table, for example, will meet your needs but undoubtedly prove imposing in your living space.

If you’re shopping for an older coffee table to bring into your home — be it an antique Georgian-style coffee table made of mahogany or walnut with decorative inlays or a classic square mid-century modern piece comprised of rosewood designed by the likes of Ettore Sottsass — there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Both the table itself and what you put on it should align with the overall design of the room, not just by what you think looks fashionable in isolation. According to interior designer Tamara Eaton, the material of your vintage coffee table is something you need to consider. “With a glass coffee table, you also have to think about the surface underneath, like the rug or floor,” she says. “With wood and stone tables, you think about what’s on top.”

Find the perfect centerpiece for any room, no matter what your personal furniture style on 1stDibs — shop Art Deco coffee tables, travertine coffee tables and other antique and vintage coffee tables and cocktail tables today.

Questions About Primitive Coffee Tables
  • Why is it called a coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019

    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.

  • What size should a coffee table be?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    A coffee table should generally be two-thirds as long as the sofa it stands in front of and around the same height as the sofa’s seat cushions.

  • Is an ottoman a coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • Can a coffee table be too low?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
    Yes, a coffee table can be too low. Most experts recommend choosing a coffee table that is around one to two inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or loveseat. You may find it difficult to access items on the tabletop while seated if you choose a shorter table. In addition, an overly low coffee table can make a room feel cramped or unbalanced. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes, designers intentionally place ultra-low coffee tables in spaces to create a bold contrast in a large room. Feel free to break from convention when choosing a coffee table. What's most important is that the finished result appeals to you and allows you to enjoy your seating area to the fullest. Shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables on 1stDibs.
  • Who invented the coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024
    No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.

    Notably, F. Stuart Foote, the designer behind the American Imperial Furniture Company, claimed to have invented the coffee table in the early 20th century. He stated that he did so by cutting down the legs of a dining table. However, it's unlikely that Foote is the actual inventor of the coffee table, as books describing coffee tables existed in the UK a decade before his birth in 1872.

    Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
  • What is the difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    While both pieces are relatively new to the furniture world, the main difference between them are their shapes. A cocktail table is generally square or rectangular in shape, while a coffee table tends to be oval or circular in shape. You can shop a collection of furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • What is the difference between a sofa table and a coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019

    The difference between a sofa table and a coffee table is that a sofa table is always behind the sofa and a coffee table is in front of it. Additionally, a sofa table is the same height as the sofa and a coffee table is much shorter.

  • Are end tables taller than coffee tables?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables.

    The term “end table” is frequently used interchangeably with “coffee table,” and while these two furnishings have much in common, each table type offers its own distinctive benefits in your space.

    Your end table is likely going to stand as tall as the arms of your sofa, and its depth will match the seating. These attributes allow for tucking the table neatly at the end of your sofa in order to provide an elevated surface between your seating and the wall. End tables are accent pieces — they’re a close cousin to side tables, but side tables, not unlike the show-stealing low-profile coffee table, are intended to be positioned prominently and have more to do with the flow and design of a room than an end table, which does a great job but does it out of the way of everything else.

    Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.
  • What is the difference between a center table and a coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
    The difference between a center table and a coffee table is usually size. Center tables tend to be larger-sized accent tables placed in the center of seating areas. On the other hand, coffee tables are smaller tables usually positioned in front of sofas and loveseats. On 1stDibs, find a variety of center tables and coffee tables.
  • What is the difference between a coffee table and a console table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between a coffee table and a console table is in the design. A coffee table is a low table that comes in many shapes, such as surfaces that are rectangles, squares, ovals or circles. Console tables are taller and usually have elongated shapes, such as ovals, rectangles or semicircles. Placement is another differentiator between the two types of tables. Coffee tables usually go in front of sofas and loveseats, while console tables may be placed behind a sofa or loveseat or along a wall. Find a large collection of coffee tables and console tables on 1stDibs.
  • What is the difference between a side table and a coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between a side table and a coffee table is mainly in the size and shape. Coffee tables usually feature larger tops but shorter legs. People typically place them in front of a sofa or a loveseat to rest books, drinks, remote controls and other items. Side tables also store items, but they are usually positioned beside an accent chair or at the ends of a sofa or loveseat. Shop a diverse assortment of side tables and coffee tables on 1stDibs.
  • Are glass coffee tables durable?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
    Whether glass coffee tables are durable depends on the craftsmanship and the materials. Generally, tables with tempered glass are less likely to shatter and break. How well you care for a coffee table will also impact its life span. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of glass coffee tables.
  • How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
  • How do you date a Lane coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
    To date a Lane coffee table, look for the serial number on the underside of the piece. On most Lane coffee tables, reading the number from right to left will tell you the date that the table was manufactured. For example, a serial number that says 852140 would have been produced on April 12, 1958. Founded in Virginia in the early 20th century, Lane is largely known for its cedar chests and innovative mid-century modern designs. Find a variety of Lane coffee tables on 1stDibs.
  • How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • How do you stack books on a coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
  • Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    Yes, a coffee table should generally be lower than a couch. However, the top of the table should only be slightly lower than the couch to maintain a balanced look. A good rule of thumb is to choose a table no more than one inch shorter than your sofa's seat height. Explore a large collection of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
  • Why are modern coffee tables so low?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Modern coffee tables tend to be low because they’re most commonly placed in front of couches and chairs. Historically, coffee tables were placed behind the couch which necessitated a taller table. Over time, as styles changed and coffee tables came to be positioned in front of couches, their heights were lowered to accommodate the modern arrangement. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage and contemporary coffee tables from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • What is the average height of a coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    The average height of a coffee table is around 16 to 18 inches. Designers typically choose this height to create a balance between coffee tables and sofas. The average seat height of sofas is 17 to 18 inches, and experts typically recommend that coffee tables be no more than 1 inch shorter than sofa-seat height. Explore a diverse assortment of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
  • What is the best height for a coffee table?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
    The best height for a coffee table is around 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of the adjacent sofa. Most sofas feature seat heights of around 17 or 18 inches. As a result, the most common height for coffee tables is 15 to 17 inches. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of coffee tables.

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