Sconces originating in Italy, were made from mirrors or shiny metal and mounted on walls to reflect candle light. During the Anglo-Saxon era, in Western Europe, sconces became the primary fixture mounted on the castle’s exterior walls to hold torches. In the 1600s sconces became an addition for decoration and were soon made from expensive metals such as gold and silver.
If you are looking to create a soothing and romantic experience in your home sconces may be the right choice. This type of lighting lets off a soft and indirect illumination in any room or entryway. They direct the light towards the ceiling as opposed to the floor or adjacent wall eliminating much glare. Wall sconces are often used in films, though they make for great lighting, in this case are usually used for safety reasons. When using candles in films or rooms in your home with lots of traffic, a wall sconce can protect it from being knocked over or bumped into.
You can find a large variation of styles and designs to meet your needs and expectations. There is everything from the renaissance era to the modern age. Renaissance style sconces can be found to look like shields, roses, old fashioned candle holders and much more. If you are looking for a more modern style sconce you will find anything from glass fixtures with pictures of animals to glass bowls and even animal mounts made into candle holders.
There are many important factors that need to be considered and put into perspective when choosing the perfect style of sconces for your home. Keep in mind the type of home you live in, for example, if you live in a log cabin in the country you may want to choose something a little more earthy as opposed to a metal or steal light fixture. Also consider the existing decorations in any rooms you plan to use them in. Such as a bedroom with floral decorations it may be best to add a rose or other flower sconce.
Whether decorating one bedroom or your whole house sconces can be a wonderful addition. They add a special touch to a romantic room or a feel of security to a shadowed area outside. With hundreds of styles to choose from anyone can find the perfect sconce for their personal taste.