Problem
Desktop icons or Fences are missing.
Solution
First, as a test, disable the Quick-hide feature:
In Fences 5, this feature can be found under the “Hide” tab of your Fences Configuration application:
Older versions of Fences will have the quick-hide setting located under the “Vanish” tab:
If this does not help, please make sure you have not inadvertently put the Fence on an alternate “desktop page” using Pages. Ensure Pages is disabled to see if the Fence \ Icon returns to your main desktop:
Automatic Layout
If all else fails, try evoking the Automatic Layout option in Fences:
https://support.stardock.com/space/SHC/1331396652
Then restore a recent Fences layout Backup/Snapshot:
https://support.stardock.com/space/SHC/1331331082/How+do+I+use+snapshots+in+Fences