Antiques defined: coffee tables
Typically coffee tables are low tables typically designed to be placed in front of a couch, to support beverages, coasters, magazines, books and similar items.
TV remote controls are other items typically found on a coffee table, and that leads to the main reason why these tables are low; so they do not obstruct the view of a TV.
In the old days, when actual antiques were crafted, without any TVs, there was no great need of such low tables, so antique examples that are genuine, are really difficult to find.
Most examples that are actually antique or preantique (just a few years younger than century old pieces), are from the beginning of the 20th century, and many of the Art Deco period.
With the TV making way in every home and in every living room, coffee tables were to be mass produced and seen in almost every home and TV room.
Many were clearly inspired by antique styles and materials, but will never be antiques.
If found they are usually not cheap, and choice is limited, but they are little treasures.
With tall lamps and flower vases, these low tables can decorate many other corners and areas of a home.
