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
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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
Mazzega murano glass Wall lighting Brutalist Pair , 1960s
By Mazzega
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
$1,158 Sale Price / set
33% Off
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
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
Signal Sconce from Souda, Black and Brass, In Stock
By Souda
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Modern Sconce or Flush Mount. Composed of a spun metal shade that reflects light filtered through a perforated metal diffuser, the subtle warmth of the signal sconce is perfectly bal...
Category
2010s American Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Metal, Aluminum, Steel
$877 Sale Price / item
35% Off
Wilhelm Wagenfeld Bauhaus Yellow 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 ligh...
Category
Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Porcelain, Glass, Opaline Glass