(Coffee Tables) While any small and low table can be, and is, called a coffee table, the term is applied particularly to the sets of three or four tables made from about 1790; of which the latter were called 'quartetto tables'.
A coffee table, also called a cocktail table, is a style of long, low table which is designed to be placed in front of a sofa, to support beverages (hence the name), magazines, feet, books (especially coffee table books), and other small items to be used while sitting, such as coasters.
A low table, typically placed in front of a sofa
low table where magazines can be placed and coffee or cocktails are served
the wood cut from a tree burl or outgrowth; often used decoratively in veneer
remove the burls from cloth
a large rounded outgrowth on the trunk or branch of a tree
A slub or lump in wool or cloth
A rounded knotty growth on a tree, giving an attractive figure when polished and used esp. for handcrafted objects and veneers
Redwood Burl Coffee Table
This belonged to my parents for many, many years. I inheritated it when Mother moved in with Joyce, but Becky "babysat" the table until I would have a chance to move it to Texas. When Becky set up her stuff in the apartment at Joyce's, I didn't have the heart to take it away from her. It fit her decor so perfectly that I told her she could have it....but I get visitation rights.
New burl coffee table
In this shot, it looks larger than it really is. Courtesy of super styling personal shopper Sean Wilson.