Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why is it called a sconce?
1 Answer
A light that hangs on a wall is called a sconce due to its linguistic history. The term originated from the Old French term esconce, which means "lantern" or "hiding place." In turn, the word sconce has its roots in the Latin root word for "to hide," abscondere. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of sconces.
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
Related Questions
- Why is it called a Huntboard?1 Answer
- Why is it called a watch?1 Answer
- Why is it called a paperweight?1 Answer
- Why is it called Medieval?1 Answer
- Why is it called couture?1 Answer
Shop for Wall Lights and Sconces on 1stDibs
Art Deco Flush Mount Ceiling Light, 1930s
Located in Oslo, NO
Rare and charming ceiling light fixture, designed and made in Sweden during the late 1930s. The fixture features a hand-painted glass shade that is elegantly mounted on a polished ch...
Category
Vintage 1930s Norwegian Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Pair of 1950s Italian Wall Sconces in Brass and Opaline Glass
Located in Rome, IT
A refined pair of Italian wall sconces from the 1950s, defined by a balanced and understated design. Each sconce features a circular brass wall plate from which a slender, gently cur...
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Metal, Brass
Clear Glass Mid-Century Brass Cast Iron Sconces Wall Lights
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Cast Iron Clear Glass sconce wall light
Clear glass with brass top
Diameter cast iron wall piece: 10.5 cm / 4”, 2 holes to secure
Weight: 2.40 kg / 5.3 lb
Priced per individual it...
Category
Mid-20th Century Dutch Industrial Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Brass, Iron
Scandinavian Flush Mount Ceiling Light
Located in Oslo, NO
Wonderful flush mount ceiling light featuring a chrome base and a handcrafted shade with a decorative layer of art glass.
The ceiling fixture features an opaline glass shade with ha...
Category
2010s Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
$1,500 / item
Swedish Designer, Wall Light, Fabric, Sweden, 1960s
Located in High Point, NC
A fabric wall light with floral embroidery designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1960s.
Wear consistent with age and use.
Overall Dimensions (Inches): 10.5"H x 8.5"W x 3.65"D
Back P...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Fabric
Pair of 1950s Italian Wall Sconces in Brass, Green Lacquered Metal, and Opaline
Located in Rome, IT
Pair of Italian wall sconces from the 1950s, featuring brass with a natural aged patina combined with green-lacquered metal accents. The opaline glass diffusers have a gently flared ...
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Brass
