Why did they make tables?

Piece of furniture with a flat top

A gilded Baroque table, with a stone top (most probably marble), from the Cinquantenaire Museum (Brussels, Belgium) Rococo writing table; 1759; lacquered oak, gilt-bronze mounts and lined with modern leather; height: 80.6 cm, width: 175.9 cm; Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York City)

A table is an item of furniture with a raised flat top and is supported most commonly by 1 to 4 legs (although some can have more). It is used as a surface for working at, eating from or on which to place things.[1][2] Some common types of tables are the dining room tables, which are used for seated persons to eat meals; the coffee table, which is a low table used in living rooms to display items or serve refreshments; and the bedside table, which is commonly used to place an alarm clock and a lamp. There are also a range of specialized types of tables, such as drafting tables, used for doing architectural drawings, and sewing tables.

Common design elements include:

• Top surfaces of various shapes, including rectangular, square, rounded, semi-circular or oval
• Legs arranged in two or more similar pairs. It usually has four legs. However, some tables have three legs, use a single heavy pedestal, or are attached to a wall.
• Several geometries of folding table that can be collapsed into a smaller volume (e.g., a TV tray, which is a portable, folding table on a stand)
• Heights ranging up and down from the most common 18–30 inches (46–76 cm) range, often reflecting the height of chairs or bar stools used as seating for people making use of a table, as for eating or performing various manipulations of objects resting on a table
• A huge range of sizes, from small bedside tables to large dining room tables and huge conference room tables
• Presence or absence of drawers, shelves or other areas for storing items
• Expansion of the table surface by insertion of leaves or locking hinged drop leaf sections into a horizontal position (this is particularly common for dining tables)

Etymology

The word table is derived from Old English tabele, derived from the Latin word tabula ('a board, plank, flat top piece'), which replaced the Old English bord;[3] its current spelling reflects the influence of the French table.

History

Roman dining table: mensa lunata Large 17th-century English folding tables

Some very early tables were made and used by the Ancient Egyptians[4] around 2500 BC, using wood and alabaster.[5] They were often little more than stone platforms used to keep objects off the floor, though a few examples of wooden tables have been found in tombs. Food and drinks were usually put on large plates deposed on a pedestal for eating. The Egyptians made use of various small tables and elevated playing boards. The Chinese also created very early tables in order to pursue the arts of writing and painting, as did people in Mesopotamia, where various metals were used.[4]

The Greeks and Romans made more frequent use of tables, notably for eating, although Greek tables were pushed under a bed after use. The Greeks invented a piece of furniture very similar to the guéridon. Tables were made of marble or wood and metal (typically bronze or silver alloys), sometimes with richly ornate legs. Later, the larger rectangular tables were made of separate platforms and pillars. The Romans also introduced a large, semicircular table to Italy, the mensa lunata. Plutarch mentions use of "tables" by Persians.[6]

Furniture during the Middle Ages is not as well known as that of earlier or later periods, and most sources show the types used by the nobility. In the Eastern Roman Empire, tables were made of metal or wood, usually with four feet and frequently linked by x-shaped stretchers. Tables for eating were large and often round or semicircular. A combination of a small round table and a lectern seemed very popular as a writing table.[7] In western Europe, the invasions and internecine wars caused most of the knowledge inherited from the classical era to be lost. As a result of the necessary movability, most tables were simple trestle tables, although small round tables made from joinery reappeared during the 15th century and onward. In the Gothic era, the chest became widespread and was often used as a table.

Refectory tables first appeared at least as early as the 17th century, as an advancement of the trestle table; these tables were typically quite long and wide and capable of supporting a sizeable banquet in the great hall or other reception room of a castle.

Shape, height, and function

Tables come in a wide variety of materials, shapes, and heights dependent upon their origin, style, intended use and cost. Many tables are made of wood or wood-based products; some are made of other materials including metal and glass. Most tables are composed of a flat surface and one or more supports (legs). A table with a single, central foot is a pedestal table. Long tables often have extra legs for support.

Dinner table and chairs

Table tops can be in virtually any shape, although rectangular, square, round (e.g. the round table), and oval tops are the most frequent. Others have higher surfaces for personal use while either standing or sitting on a tall stool.

Many tables have tops that can be adjusted to change their height, position, shape, or size, either with foldable, sliding or extensions parts that can alter the shape of the top. Some tables are entirely foldable for easy transportation, e.g. camping or storage, e.g., TV trays. Small tables in trains and aircraft may be fixed or foldable, although they are sometimes considered as simply convenient shelves rather than tables.

Tables can be freestanding or designed for placement against a wall. Tables designed to be placed against a wall are known as pier tables or console tables (French: console, "support bracket") and may be bracket-mounted (traditionally), like a shelf, or have legs, which sometimes imitate the look of a bracket-mounted table.

Types

A combination of a table with two benches (picnic table) as often seen at camping sites and other outdoor facilities A formally laid table, set with a dinner service Nested tables

Tables of various shapes, heights, and sizes are designed for specific uses:

Specialized types

Historically, various types of tables have become popular for specific uses:

• Loo tables were very popular in the 18th and 19th centuries as candlestands, tea tables, or small dining tables, although they were originally made for the popular card game loo or lanterloo. Their typically round or oval tops have a tilting mechanism, which enables them to be stored out of the way (e.g. in room corners) when not in use. A further development in this direction was the "birdcage" table, the top of which could both revolve and tilt.Chess table
• Pembroke tables,
  first introduced during the 18th century, were popular throughout the 19th century. Their main characteristic was a rectangular or oval top with folding or drop leaves on each side. Most examples have one or more drawers and four legs, sometimes connected by stretchers. Their design meant they could easily be stored or moved about and conveniently opened for serving tea, dining, writing, or other occasional uses. One account attributes the design of the Pembroke table to Henry Herbert, 9th Earl of Pembroke (1693-1751).[10]

Competitive table tennis

• Sofa tables are similar to Pembroke tables and usually have longer and narrower tops. They were specifically designed for placement directly in front of sofas for serving tea, writing, dining, or other convenient uses. Generally speaking, a sofa table is a tall, narrow table used behind a sofa to hold lamps or decorative objects.
• Work tables were small tables designed to hold sewing materials and implements, providing a convenient work place for women who sewed. They appeared during the 18th century and were popular throughout the 19th century. Most examples have rectangular tops, sometimes with folding leaves, and usually one or more drawers fitted with partitions. Early examples typically have four legs, often standing on casters, while later examples sometimes have turned columns or other forms of support.Poker table
• Drum tables are round tables introduced for writing, with drawers around the platform.
• End tables are small tables typically placed beside couches or armchairs. Often lamps will be placed on an end table.
• Overbed tables are narrow rectangular tables whose top is designed for use above the bed, especially for hospital patients.[11]
• Billiards tables are bounded tables on which billiards-type games are played. All provide a flat surface, usually composed of slate and covered with cloth, elevated above the ground.
• Chess tables are a type of games table that integrates a chessboard.
• Table tennis tables are usually masonite or a similar wood, layered with a smooth low-friction coating. they are divided into two halves by a low net, which separates opposing players.
• Poker tables or card tables are used to play poker or other card games.

Gallery

Pedestal tables

• Single pedestal

• Small single pedestal

• Dropleaf single pedestal

• Oval single pedestal

• Multiple pedestal

See also

References

Bibliography

Further reading

The use of plastic has grown over the years, and it’s used now more than ever to make a wide range of everyday items, and tables are one of them. People today prefer tables made out of the plastic over other materials such as metal or wood because of the various advantages plastic offers to individuals.

You can find plastic tables almost everywhere, be it a workplace, home patio, or public place. Plastic is a cheap and long-lasting material. In this article, you’ll learn about the various advantages of plastic tables, so read until the end. 

Plastic Tables – Overview 

The plastic table industry uses different plastics, including polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polymers, and others. These materials’ low cost and durability make them ideal for both indoor and outdoor settings. 

Thanks to their customizability, utility, and modern touch, plastic tables are among the most sought-after options for various temporary requirements like birthday parties, events, and weddings. 

That said, don’t be too swayed by the word “temporary” here. Plastic tables are also known for their durability; they will easily last you a lifetime which is why an increasing number of people prefer plastic furniture to traditional metal and wood furniture.

Here are 7 potent reasons why plastic tables are the way to go as far as modern furniture is concerned:

1. Versatile Material 

Plastic comes in various patterns and colors, making it a perfect material for creating designer and stylish furniture. Moreover, it can be molded into tables, bed frames, chairs, kitchen gadgets, sports equipment, and lab tools. 

Customers have endless options for a plastic table that satisfies their needs. You can even find foldable plastic tables in various shapes, colors, and sizes. 

2. Requires Little To No Maintenance

Plastic tables are extremely low-maintenance as compared to other materials. It’s rust-free and doesn’t require painting. Simply put, these tables are a one-time investment that will pay you handsome returns over the years. 

You only need to clean them once in a while using a regular cleaning solution and a soft rag. This will keep the product’s looks intact and remove any dust that may have accumulated on it. 

CAUTION: Keep your plastic tables away from harsh chemicals and heat as they can cause irreparable damage.

3. Environment-Friendly

Most wood and metal furniture items aren’t recyclable. On the other hand, plastic tables are easy to recycle. This reduces the cost of production and saves the environment – less need to cut trees, which otherwise is quite extensive for creating wooden furniture. Buying plastic furniture would mean contributing to nature’s cause. 

4. Stylish And Affordable 

Plastic is comparatively cheaper than other materials, which is highly advantageous for manufacturers and end customers. And the best part is that you don’t have to compromise with the comfort or style. 

Plastic can be sourced easily for making high-quality tables. However, the price of plastic tables varies according to the quality. Today, you can find plastic tables almost everywhere. Their easy production has paved the way to easy availability for the customers. 

5. Easy Mobility And Lightweight

Plastic tables are lightweight in comparison to metal and wood furniture. And this feature has increased its demand in the market since it can be moved anywhere in and around the premises without any hassle. Resultantly, more and more manufacturers are shifting to plastic table production. 

Plastic is also regarded as a heavy-duty material. If you have ever moved a full-sized wooden or metal table, you’ll know how hard it is to shift it from one place to another. They require a lot of support and help because of their heavy load. On the flip side, plastic tables are easily transportable. 

6. Durable And Long-Lasting

Plastic is used for manufacturing all kinds of modern furniture since it is both resilient and tough. A standout feature of plastic tables is that it’s impervious to insects and rot. 

Plastic furniture is miles ahead of even well-crafted and sealed wooden furniture. Therefore, you can use it for a more extended period even if it’s a daily-use item.

Moreover, plastic doesn’t cause any damage to the surface if dropped. High-quality plastic tables are highly durable. Unlike wooden furniture, it doesn’t crack easily. 

Also, it isn’t prone to defects or damage. You don’t even need to polish your plastic tables repeatedly to save them from climatic conditions or rust. 

7. Children-Friendly And Waterproof 

Plastic tables don’t get damaged if they come in contact with water. They are waterproof, making them ideal for use in wet conditions like rain. Also, they are completely safe for children as they don’t feature any sharp corners or edges. 

Tables created out of plastic meet almost every requirement of individuals efficiently. Therefore, they can be ideally used in waiting rooms, canteen, storage cabinets, corridors, bedrooms, living areas, etc.

Like everything else, plastic tables too, have their disadvantages. First off, they aren’t as elegant as tables of other materials, so they may look less attractive and cheap to some meticulous eyes. That said, if you buy high-quality plastic, you may not have to deal with this issue. 

Despite a few disadvantages, tables made out of plastic are highly recommended. They have proven to be one of the best alternatives to wood and metal furniture over the last decade or so.

Moreover, you can create a plethora of set-ups using plastic tables, including but not limited to Classic Banquet, U and V-Shaped, Theater, Auditorium or Classroom style, Fishbone, and Semi-circle set-up. Such versatility is almost impossible to find in any other class of tables. 

Moreover, plastic tables can also be customized according to an individual’s personal use and preferences. That said, carving out immaculate plastic tables is not everyone’s cup of tea and most manufacturers simply want to get on the gravy train with sub-standard products. Make sure you only deal with a reliable manufacturer who provides quality plastic tables at a competitive price. All the best!