Sconce (light fixture)

A sconce is a type of light fixture affixed to a wall in such a way that it uses only the wall for support, and the light is usually directed upwards, but not always. It does not have a base on the ground. For this reason, lighting fixtures will need an electrical box to be installed. A sconce may be a traditional torch, candle or gas light, or a modern electric light source affixed in the same way. Modern fittings are more often called wall lights or similar terms, especially if the light source is wholly covered by glass.

Sconces can be placed on both the interior and exterior walls of buildings. In pre-modern usage, these usually held candles and torches respectively. Historically, candle sconces were often made of silver from the 17th century, with porcelain coming in during the 18th century.

The etymology of is from the Latin absconsus, and the French esconce signifying a covering or protection, or, by extension, that which is covered or protected.

Modern electric light fixture sconces are often used in hallways or corridors to provide both lighting and a point of interest in a long passage. Sconce height in a passageway is generally 3/4 of the distance up the wall as measured from the floor to the ceiling, and the distance between sconces on the wall is generally equal to the distance of the sconces from the floor, often alternating sides of the passageway. Sconces are typically installed in pairs or other multiple units to provide balance. They can be used to frame doorways or line a hallway. Swing arm sconces are often placed next to a bed to provide task lighting for reading.

Nb note from Egil's Saga translated by E. R. Eddison (1930) "floor the sconce" - purports to drinking (alcohol) in pairs so to floor the sconce (it being 3/4 up the height of the wall) with assistance as opposed to on your own. Full note reads: "To drink einmenningr meant you must 'floor the sconce' without assistance, instead of (as here) have a partner to help you." (Pg. 259)

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