The Evolution of the Wall Sconce

Light, in any form, is arguably one of the most important features of design. This one element can be the difference between “good” and “great” work. Sconces have provided a source of light for thousands of years. Whether wooden or metal, these brackets affixed to walls are designed to illuminate a space and serve as decoration. In the earliest form, a simple wooden torch would fit into a bracket already attached to the wall. While some functioned to stay on the wall, others were removable so the torch could be used to enhance the lighting on certain objects in the room. Although it is apparent that the technology behind sconces has developed over time, a closer look will reveal how the progression has affected interior spaces.

During the time of cultural precedents all the way to the Antiquity period that ended in the late 2nd century, fire was the primary source of light. Maintained by torches, candles, and lamps, the variety of lighting was very small and served primarily as a source of light with little to no emphasis on the design of the sconce until the Antiquity period. The designs consisted of ornate sculptures that resembled the architecture of the time. Colors during this time period were very bold and bright in hopes of illuminating the overall dark rooms. Because of the poor color rendering index of a natural flame, an unsaturated color would never be perceived correctly inside of a building without access to natural light. Through the time of the Renaissance, including the Italian, Spanish, and English, torches and candles continued as the primary source of light. Sconces were placed at a height suitable for maintenance throughout the day. High relief in furniture, in addition to the bold colors, also became common...

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...in lighting, the modern movement of the 20th century may have never occurred in the same capacity. Design as we know it revolves around lighting, and the possibilities of the industry’s future are in many way limitless.

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