Making of the Portal Sconce

Earlier in 2014 we were very excited to introduce the Portal Sconce. The sconce was inspired by a new and creative mirrored glass technique we discovered several years ago. The effect of this glass stayed with us but we were not sure how to best use it. Finally, the idea for a low-profile wall sconce with clean lines evolved and took form. But it had been so long our craftsman had to re-develop the technique! Without going into too much detail, the process involves firing glass to get a 3D effect. However too little time/too low a temperature will not yield the effect and too much time/too high a temperature will simply leave you with puddles of glass. After some trial and error, we landed on the correct result. Below are some images from the process - thank you for having a look! 

The first frame test for our Portal sconce. Templates for the glass were based on this prototype. 

The first frame prototype in American Walnut and brass for the Portal Sconce

Un-mirrored glass firing test which was unsuccessful.

First time we had a fully assembled prototype with mirrored glass in the walnut and brass frame

Pair of Portal Sconce specially wired with battery pack LED lights for Harry Heissmann's use in a showhouse/ 

Detail of the mirrored glass of the Portal Sconce as lit by 2 halogen bulbs

The Portal Sconce by Victoria & Son