A wall sconce is a type of light fixture that mounts directly to a wall. Unlike pendants or chandeliers that hang from the ceiling, a sconce sits at eye level and casts light outward from the wall.

The term comes from early wall-mounted candle holders. Over time, as lighting moved from candles to gas and eventually electricity, the name stayed. Today it refers to any wall-mounted light fixture.

What makes sconces useful is the direction of their light. Because the light comes from the side instead of above, it softens shadows and adds depth to a room. That side lighting helps spaces feel warmer and more balanced.

Sconces show up in a lot of places. In bathrooms they are often installed beside mirrors to light the face evenly. In hallways they guide the path without flooding the whole space with light. In a bedroom they can replace a table lamp while freeing up surface space.

Many modern sconces keep the design simple so the shape and the light itself become the focus. Some use glass to soften the brightness, while others use metal shades that direct light upward or downward.