Table

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Ancient Greek tables were primarily made from wood, though luxury versions might incorporate materials like ivory, metal, or marble for decorative purposes. The typical Greek table was designed for specific uses, with each type of table having distinct forms based on its function, whether for dining, writing, or other social activities.

For everyday dining, the Greeks used a simple, low table known as a “trapeza” (τράπεζα), which typically had three or four legs and a rectangular or circular top. These tables were used in the context of symposia (banquets), which were an important social activity in Greek culture, especially among the aristocracy. In these settings, diners would recline on couches (known as klinai) and eat while seated low to the ground, often with small tables placed nearby to hold food, wine, and other items. The trapeza was usually lightweight and portable, allowing it to be moved as needed for different events.

The construction of these tables involved basic carpentry skills. The legs were often shaped into simple cylindrical or tapered forms, sometimes with decorative elements like carved details or turning techniques. The tops were made of wood, usually in a smooth, rectangular or circular shape, and were often reinforced with cross beams underneath to provide stability. In wealthier homes, tables might feature inlays or carvings, and some were made of marble or stone, particularly for public buildings or temples where durability was a priority.

Tables used for writing were more specialized. These tended to have a flat surface and could be elevated or come with an attached stand or base to provide support while writing or drawing. Some may have been covered with waxed tablets for use with styluses, while others may have had simple grooves to hold papyrus scrolls or other materials used for writing.