Henri Dasson French, 1825 - 1896 A Louis XVI style gilt bronze six-light chandelier Paris, dated 1889, after the model by Pierre Gouthière

signed henry Dasson et C^ie/ 1889

Hans Ottomeyer and Peter Pröschel, Vergoldete Bronzen, Munich, 1986, Vol I, p. 238, figs. 4.4.1. and 4.4.2.

Drilled and wired for electricity. Overall in fair condition with the usual tarnishing and dirt to gilt bronze mounts consistent with age and atmospheric conditions through the years. The outcurving acanthus leaves at the top have broken stems. Vacant holes for wiring in central stem and next to seated putti.
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.

This model is based upon the celebrated model by Pierre Gouthière in the Cabinet Doré in the Royal Palace of Versailles. The drawing of this model is also illustrated in the aforementioned literature, p. 238, fig. 4.4.2., which is now in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris.

Henri Dasson (1825- 1896) 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 clocks in association with Emile Godeau.  A gifted draftsman, Dasson studied under Justin Marie Lequien, professor at the École Superieur Turgot.  In 1871, he bought the workshop and stock for 14,000 francs from the widow of the ébéniste (cabinet maker) Charles-Guillaume Winckelsen, 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.’(New to the industry, Henri Dasson has become highly respected by his peers, thanks to the quality of his creations, we applaud him with great warmth). 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.