Rare Pair of Gilt-Bronze Five-light Wall Light Sconces by Henri Vian of Paris - Stamped

A rare and exceptional pair of five-light gilt-bronze wall light sconces, stamped Henri Vian, Paris (circa 1880–1900). Henri Vian was among the most distinguished Parisian bronziers of the late 19th Century, working from his celebrated atelier on the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine. His work is characterised by the exceptional quality of casting, the precision of chasing and the sculptural authority of his figural and foliate mounts - qualities fully evident in this pair. Each wall sconce rises from a reeded torch-form central column with ebonised ground, applied with three figural mask mounts in high relief, floriate swags, and garland drops in ormolu of excellent casting quality. Five scrolled candle arms with reeded nozzles and beaded drip pans radiate outwards at varying heights, creating a composition of real dynamism and presence. The whole is surmounted by a ribbon-tied bow mount at the apex - a hallmark of the finest.