Henri Dasson French, 1825 - 1896 A fine pair of gilt bronze five-branch wall lights Paris, dated 1878

each signed Henry Dasson 1878

Fine condition, quality, and presentation. Very small holes to drip pans where wired for electricity. The wiring not tested for functionality. A few very minor pits and areas of oxidation consistent with age and atmospheric conditions over the years.
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.

Henry Dasson established his workshop at 106, Rue Vielle du Temple, after a brief career at Rue des Nonnains-d’ Hières in the fabrication of bronze artifacts and bronzes for clocks in association with Emile Godeau.  A gifted draftsman, Dasson studied under Justin Marie Lequien, professor at the École Superieur Turgot.  In 1867 he took over the workshop of Carl Dreschler, who was the ébéniste famous for reproducing J.H. Riesner’s le Grand Bureau du Roi for the 4th Marquess of Herford. Interestingly Dreschler was the foreman of the celebrated Sculptor and Bronzier Charles Crozatier (d. 1855). By purchasing Dreschler’s workshop, Dasson also gained most of Crozatier’s celebrated master models. In 1871 he purchased the workshop and stock of Charless-Guillaume Winckelsen for 14,000 francs from his widow. With these acquisitions, Dasson gained notoriety and soon became recognized as a brilliant ébéniste and bronzier.  Specializing mostly in the production of works from the Garde Meuble National, he participated in the 1878 Paris Exposition Universelle prompting critic Louis Gonse to comment: ‘nouveau venu dans la carrière industrielle, Henri Dasson s'est rapidement crée par la perfection de ses oeuvres une très haute situation à laquelle nous applaudissons chaleureusement.’ He was made a Chevalier of the Légion d'honneur in 1883 and was awarded the Grand Prix Artistique at the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle. When the business closed in 1894, an auction was organized to clear the remainder of his stock.