Moroccan Lighting - Moroccan Lamps, Sconces and Lanterns

Light isn’t just about seeing your way around the house. It’s vital in creating a positive atmosphere or a mood. Too much or too little light can be emotionally upsetting and downright depressing. Consider those rainy days or winter months where your body just does not get the light it needs to function at top performance.

Many people like Moroccan sconces because they direct the light upwards, so it’s not blinding them. Also, because it’s positioned on a wall, the kids aren’t knocking it over or creating a fire hazard. In fact, the very meaning of the word “sconce” comes from Latin and French derivation, meaning “that which is covered or protected.” In medieval times, sconces were candlestick holders that were used to light long castle corridors.

If you don’t have your own castle, there are still many spots where you can place a modern day sconce -- which is now powered like any other lamp, rather than by candle. The bathroom is a good place, above the mirror. No one wants harsh lighting in a bathroom, which magnifies every blemish and dark eye circle. Instead, you want a soft sultry glow that gives you a warm, youthful appearance.

Another good place for a Moroccan wall sconce is the hallway, but be aware that you will need a series of them, as they don’t give off that much light. It’s nice for those late night trips to the bathroom, where you want a welcoming glow.

Since many sconces have a rustic wrought iron look, designers often put sconces outside to give the appearance of a camping lantern or Middle Ages torch. Add some fire to your backyard birthday bash with a glowing red henna sconce or a sturdy lantern made of stained glass and wrought iron.

Perhaps the best use for a Moroccan sconce is to accent a particular object or for one specific task. For instance, a bedside sconce can provide just enough light to read that compelling novel you just picked up – or a sconce next to the kitchen sink will give you adequate lighting for washing dishes after dinner. You can also use a sconce to illuminate your favorite piece of artwork hanging on the wall, just like you see at museums!

What makes Moroccan sconces different than others? Well, first of all, these sconces aren’t made in some fast-paced factory. You can select the Moroccan henna sconces handmade by Berber goat herdsman -- or you can choose a stained glass design, which is just as authentic.

Stylistically, many of the Moroccan sconces come in a variety of shapes -- diamond, hexagons, circles, curvy, triangular. The North African Berber tribes believed in using symbolism and shape to ward off evil spirits and create a magical aura of protection in their homes. This magic is reflected in your very own wall sconce, while adding a little bit of art décor to catch the tasteful eye.

Also, you’ll notice that these sconces are stained and dyed in brilliant reds, yellows, blues, oranges and other vivid colors. To the Moroccans, color was a way of capturing a hint of individuality in an otherwise religiously muffled society. Whatever color scheme you have in your rooms, you will find the perfect Moroccan sconce accent to showcase your personality.