The terms wall light and wall sconce are generally used to describe both types of lighting fixtures. However, in simple terms, a standard wall light can be a fixture that is hung and the light source is usually exposed. A wall sconce is traditionally mounted flat against the wall, with the light source typically covered by glass. Wall lighting and wall sconces have the ability to shape the light it produces in a certain way, meaning you can style your room with both the lamp and the light itself.