Art Deco Coffee Table

The history of coffee tables back to the late 18th century to the Victorian era. During this period they were actually used to place cups of tea, because it was the drink of severe weather at the height of fashion - all drank tea. This has led to a growing demand for tea tables. They are generally larger than today's low slung coffee tables, but as time wore on and the high-backed sofas that were so popular during the second half of the seventeenth century were replaced by low back sofas, what we now know that coffee tables were placed in service. These tables have been specifically designed to withstand the back of the sofa, and they have been used to place books, candles and coffee or tea.

The first tables to be called as such have been designed in Great Britain. They were built of wood. Again they were generally higher than our contemporary coffee tables. The low height may have influenced the grade Japanese tables almost in tandem with the Ottoman-style table in the tea gardens. Coffee tables and are a relatively new invention.

The coffee table developed with the greater availability of materials and the increase in mass production and therefore affordable. Following the industrial revolution, manufacturing of wood furniture has finally been industrialized. During the Arts and Crafts movement in Great Britain, there was a desire to restore the hand made furniture, in particular, the individual style of the craftsman. During this time tables have been made, but examples are hard to find.

During the Art Nouveau period, which is born of the Arts and Crafts Movement, a variety of styles emerged. Coffee tables this time stayed away from the ornate embellishments so favored by the Victorians, but clean lines and an emphasis on natural forms have been promoted.

Art Deco combined contrasting points of inspiration, the artists of the era were influenced by primitivism and modern technology, such as aircraft and locomotives. Followers of the movement joined geometric shapes and curves and straight lines, more in tune with the era of the machine. The coffee table then use Formica laminate, which was discovered at that time. In design, they tend to be simplified and streamlined.

The Bauhaus movement, which emerged from Germany purity of form valued. They are often used glass and steel in their works.

These movements influenced modern styles, which were more eclectic. Other materials, such as combinations of wood and glass and chrome and acrylic were used.

Today variety of styles of coffee table reflect their past a bit long and varied. These days, you will find simple, round tables that echo modern minimalist aesthetic, but you can also find a treasure of history mirrored assorted styles. You fake Victorian style, clean and elegant business Bauhaus, and even retro 60's kitsch. There are tables inspired futuristic lego legs and glass tops. You can find tables made from old bathtubs or doors. There's really no limit when it comes to drawings.