A pair of gilt-bronze wall appliques by Henri Vian first half 19th century

with three scrolled candlebranches, stamped Vian 271b on the reverse

In overall good original condition. The gilding worn and rubbed in places with minor surface dirt.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Comparative Literature:
Peter Hughes, The Wallace Collection, Catalogue of Furniture, Volume III, 1996, London, pp. 1430-1432.

This pair of wall lights is based on the celebrated model with five candle branches by Pierre-Philippe Thomire (1751-1843), which was delivered for the Salon de Jeux at the Château de St. Cloud in 1787. Another example of the same model, circa 1805, is in the Wallace Collection, illustrated by Hughes, op. cit., p. 1431. There is also another pair in the J. Paul Getty Museum, Malibu.  

Henry Vian  was the celebrated bronzier and grandfather of Boris Vian and the former specialised in the production of bronzes in the 18th century style. He was most well known for his production of light fittings. He participated in the Great Exhibitions of 1878, 1889 and 1900 and received a Gold Medal in 1889. His workshop was based at  5 rue de Thorigny, Paris and after his death in 1905, his wife, then his son Paul  continued the business until 1944, when the city of Paris took over the premises for the l'Ecole des Métiers d'Art.