Rare Pair of Articulating Sconces by Stilnovo

Stilnovo rare pair of articulating sconces or wall lights in enameled metal and brass, Italy, 1950s.

Each Stilnovo sconce features a tapered black enameled metal shade with a band of small perforations, mounted to a slender black metal arm and sculptural brass wall fitting. The arms pivot from brass ball joints at the backplates, while the shades are independently adjustable, allowing the direction of the light to be changed as needed.

The contrast of black enamel and brass emphasizes the clean, functional design of the sconces, while the perforations around the upper section of each shade add a refined decorative detail and allow small points of light to escape when illuminated. The combination of black enamel and brass gives the lights a distinctly graphic appearance characteristic of Stilnovo’s iconic postwar production.

Both shades retain partial original manufacturer’s labels marked “STILNOVO,” while the brass wall fittings are stamped “STILNOVO - ITALY.”

Because of their compact proportions and adjustable construction, these lights are particularly well suited for use as bedside reading lights, wall-mounted task lights, or directional accent lights beside a sofa, lounge chair, desk, or bed. The articulated arms allow the fixtures to project outward from the wall when in use and to be repositioned closer to the wall when desired.

Overall dimensions:
Height: 17 in.
Width: 2.75 in.
Depth / maximum projection from wall: 15.5 in.

Additional dimensions:
Arm length: 9 in.
Shade: 5.75 H× 2.75 Dia in.
Backplate: 4.5 H × 2.5 W in.