Skip to main content
Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

What is the difference between a sconce and a wall lamp?

1 Answer
What is the difference between a sconce and a wall lamp?
The difference between a sconce and a wall lamp is that a sconce is a type of wall lamp or wall lighting fixture. The term sconce is usually used to refer to a decorative lighting fixture whereas a wall lamp might refer to recessed lighting, spotlights or track lighting.

Usually installed in pairs or groups, sconces are decorative fixtures used to light hallways, or placed on either side of a door or bed. In addition to ambient illumination, they can provide upward or downward directional lighting, or both.

Find antique and vintage sconces and other wall lights on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2024
Shop for Wall Lights and Sconces on 1stDibs
Scandinavian Functionalist Ceiling Light, 1950s
Located in Oslo, NO
This wonderful and rare flush mount ceiling light is a standout example of the Nordic Functionalism from the 1930s, a design movement that sought to merge beautiful craftsmanship wit...
Category

Vintage 1950s Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Chrome

Swedish Pine Wood Sconces by Markslöjd, Sweden, 1980s
Located in Værløse, DK
Swedish Modern Pine Wood Sconces in great vintage condition made by Markslöjd circa 1980. * Set (2) of pine wood sconces with off-white fabric shades. * Manufacturer: Markslöjd, Sw...
Category

Vintage 1980s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Wood, Pine

Mazzega murano glass Wall lighting Brutalist Pair , 1960s
Located in La xara, VC
Original Period light Original lamp from the 50s/60s in the brutalist trend. a decorative piece that will give a unique atmosphere to your interior . There are several reasons to bu...
Category

Vintage 1960s Spanish Brutalist Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Metal, Iron

Wilhelm Wagenfeld Bauhaus White Sconce Double Wall Light, Linder Germany, 1950s
Located in Vienna, AT
A Midcentury Modern double socket wall lamp/sconce dating back to the 1950s, designed by Wilhelm Wagenfeld. Its form resembles a zeppelin or cigar, crafted from porcelain with a whit...
Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Porcelain, Glass, Opaline Glass

Italian Designer, Wall Lights, Glass, Brass, Italy, 1940s
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of Murano-glass and brass wall lights designed and produced in Italy, c. 1940s. Overall Dimensions (Inches): 9.5"H x 4.0"W x 3.0"D Back Plate Dimensions (Inches): 2.5"H x 2....
Category

Vintage 1940s Italian Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

Sculptural Murano Style Wall Sconces, Brass & Ribbed Curved Glass
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A striking pair of wall sconces in the style of Murano, featuring sculptural curved glass panels with a ribbed, textured surface and rich amber-gold tint. Each sconce is mounted on a...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and ...

Materials

Brass

Shop All