Henri Vian

Bronzier (active c. 1860–1905)

A Parisian bronzier of the second half of the 19th century, Henri Vian specialised in furnishings and interior decorative bronzes: chimneypieces, chandeliers, wall lights, balustrades, and bronze-mounted vases. Inspired by the Louis XV and Louis XVI styles, his creations are distinguished by the superb quality of their chasing and gilding. His workshop occupied the Hôtel Salé at 5, rue de Thorigny in the Marais—the grand hôtel particulier that today houses the Musée Picasso. For the discerning connoisseur, his signature serves as an invaluable reference. Most often, it is engraved in cursive script with his first initial followed by his surname, “H. Vian”. On his later works, only the two initials “h.V.” appear. Following Henri Vian’s death in 1905, his widow took over the direction of the firm, which continued its activity under the same name.