Wall Sconces

Before the switch there was the wall, a flame, and a polished plate to double it. Sconces in brass, bronze, iron, tin and gilded wood were often first made for candles. French bronze and gilt sconces with crystal drops, Italian carved giltwood, Mexican punched tin, Dutch brass with reflector backplates, Indian brass and Moroccan pierced metal held a flame against the wall, where polished metal could double its light. Wired now or kept for candles, they flank a fireplace or a bed. Old brass carries soft dents. Gilt that wears through to its red bole is simply telling the truth.