Swedish Sconces – Swedish Furniture

One common decorative element found in Swedish decorated homes is the use of small mirrored sconces. Not only were these beautiful to look at, they were practical in the 17th and 18th centuries when light switches and modern electricity was not invented yet. Candle sconces were placed on the wall in old times to bring light to a room. The mirror backing magnified the light from the candle which allowed the room to be even brighter.

Sconces were paired with tables, which made sense to protect the home from fire hazzards. Candles at walking height were easier to light at dusk, allowing the freedom of candles on the tables to be moved around from room to room as needed. In addition, stationary candles on the walls didn’t serve a fire risk as much as those on table tops. Often times pictures depicting Gustavian interiors feature demi lune tables paired up with wall sconces. Gustavian interiors are all about simplicity, and symmetry, although I am sure positioning the table or chair below a candle also prevented bumping and tipping over of candles.

Today it is hard to locate a set or a pair of these Gustavian styled wood sconces. They are not a common find! If you are really enamored with old world Swedish and Gustavian styled rooms, hunt around for rectangular mirrors that you can alter yourself.

1. Shop Ebay For Similar Looks

Ebay is one of the best resources for decorating your home. Lets face it, if you are after a particular style, it isn’t going to be in your local antique store, unless you live in Sweden. Shopping ebay allows you to narrow down the parameters, and search for key words. Consider buying something close to the style you are after, and alter it with additional wood, decorative wood appliques, and paint. You do not have to have ALL genuine antiques in your home. Be creative without spending a fortune.

Get the Look For Less- Vintage Primitive Pair Homco Black Mirrored Candle Holder Wall $17.00 Check out this pinterest page with looks you can create for less.

2. Shop Esty!

Esty is often the last place I look, and often times I forget all about esty. Ebay is always my first place to look, although when I have looked on esty, often times there are a few hidden gems.

Last week I was searching through ebay for a particular set of handles for a desk I am finishing up. I found what I was looking for, and waited several days to bid. I ended up loosing the bid to another, and would have spent way to much money anyhow. I looked on esty after loosing the auction, and found an identical set of French pulls for a lot less money. The best thing is I could buy right away. Esty has a LOT of great listings. Take the time to search out key words.

The greatest thing about Esty and Ebay is you are supporting local families and small businesses. Every day people like you and I…. Often times they are looking for a small profit, making it very a reasonable place to purchase.

Suggestions:

Smiling Horse Designs has for sale an 18th century Gustavian reproduction gold painted mirror with candle holder. Hand crafted wood painted mirror, using same techniques as in the original design. 7″ taper holder in metal, painted gold. They are selling this incredible mirror for $99 Here you go! The best deal I have seen yet!

Please be sure to add yourself to the Swedish and French decorating page on Facebook. Enjoy lots of photographs and other people who enjoy this particular decorating style

www.skonahem.com

This house is situated outside the town Karlstad in Sweden. The house actually manages without water and sanitary sewer! This primitive styled log house has been passed down for generations. The current family who enjoys this home are the eighth generation.