What does Trapeza refer to in medieval furniture terminology?

What does Trapeza refer to in medieval furniture terminology?

• A. Chair
• B. Stool
• C. Table
• D. Bench

Answer: (C)

Trapeza comes from the Greek τραπέζη, meaning a table. In medieval furniture vocabulary, this term is used to name the flat surface used for meals or writing—the table itself. It’s a dining or work surface, not seating. That’s why it’s the best match for a table, rather than a chair, stool, or bench, which would be described with different terms. In practice you might see it in a monastery or household inventory referring to the long dining table in the refectory—the place where people gather to eat.

Trapeza comes from the Greek τραπέζη, meaning a table. In medieval furniture vocabulary, this term is used to name the flat surface used for meals or writing—the table itself. It’s a dining or work surface, not seating. That’s why it’s the best match for a table, rather than a chair, stool, or bench, which would be described with different terms. In practice you might see it in a monastery or household inventory referring to the long dining table in the refectory—the place where people gather to eat.