Some sconces are referred to as wall brackets. They may contain exposed lamps, or the lamps may be concealed by opaque or translucent glass or plastics, or other opaque materials.
Light distribution varies according to type and style.
Wall sconces can provide indirect lighting, downlighting or general, diffuse lighting. Many wall sconces and diffusers contain incandescent lamps , but also may accomodate pin-based compact fluorescent lamps or screwbase compact fluorescent lamps . For maximum efficiency, select sconces and diffusers that use fluorescent lamps. Luminaires designed solely for compact fluorescent lamps are available, too. Avoid the excessive brightness that may occur when high-wattage lamps are used.