Four ormolu and jasperware wall lights by Vian and Beurdeley

The four ormolu (gilt bronze) wall lights are of matching design. Each light features an oval-shaped backplate which contains a jasperware medallion depicting Venus and Cupid. These are set within foliate oval frames, crowned by wreath models. The tops of the backplates take the form of ribbons which are tied in bows, and the bases terminate in ribbon tassels. 

Each wall light features two reeded arms which are decorated with leafy scrolled vines, enclosing flowers. The arms support wide reeded and gadrooned drip-pans which are topped by ornate urn-shaped capitals with beaded sconces and white candle-tubes.  

The wall lights are stamped ‘HV 955’ and are signed ‘BY’. These are the marks of Henri Vian and the Beurdeley workshop. Henri Vian was an accomplished Paris-based metalworker who specialised in the production of bronzes in 18th Century styles. He took part in the International Exhibitions in Paris in 1878, 1889 and 1900, and won a gold medal in 1889. Vian purchased several bronze models that were created by the Beurdeley workshop. These were sold at auction after the company closed in 1895.