A PAIR OF LARGE GILT BRONZE CHENETS, REPRESENTING A YOUNG MOSES AND PHARAOH Paris, late 19th century, the bases signed H. Vian

Moses shown holding the ten commandments, and the pharaoh with a paddle, each signed h. Vian.

Overall good condition. Some scratches and tarnishing consistent with age and use. Area of oxidation approximately two inches in length to Moses' foot.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The fine work of the house of Henri Vian, who concentrated exclusively on light fittings and decorative utilitarian objects like the present pair of chenets, is little known outside a small coterie of collectors. The quality and style of the casting and gilding is often being mistaken for earlier work, unless the small signature is found. The signature can either be in script, as in the present lot, or, more commonly, with initials only, usually with a lower case first letter for the Christian name. Vian was born in Turenne in 1860 and is recorded until 1940. He supplied many of the light fittings for l'hôtel Aubert de Fontenay (Hôtel Salé). See Pierre Verlet, Les Bronzes Dorés Français du XVIII siècle, France, p. 344