In an electroluminescent element, a first electrode having first and second opposite surfaces is layered on a substrate so as to contact the substrate on its first surface. A luminescent layer containing a light-emitting layer is layered on the first electrode so as to contact the second surface of the first electrode. A second electrode having first and second opposite surfaces is layered on the luminescent layer so as to contact the luminescent layer on its first surface. The second surface of the second electrode is at least partially exposed. A first terminal is provided on the second surface of the first electrode at a portion that does not contact the luminescent layer. A second terminal is partially formed in the exposed portion. At least one of the first and second electrodes is transparent. The first and second terminals are connected to a power source.