150 years of passion and a family affair
Maison Lucien Gau was established in Paris in 1860 and is specialized in the manufacturing of bronze artwork: lighting, small pieces of furniture or decorating objects. The company’s greatest asset lies in its deep, long lasting dedication and passion for bronze artwork. When Charles Gau started his activity 156 years ago, he also triggered a family tradition of bronze crafting know-how - this flame has been passed on to all six generations who have run Maison Lucien Gau. All have succesfully perpetuated the tradition of bronze artwork, whether in the process of creation, manufacturing or restoration.
This combination of family and passion forms a cornerstone to which every staff member at Maison Lucien Gau commits –whatever their part in the process of product development.
Charles Gau’s legacy is still vivid – first through his son Henri, and his later heirs. Today, Julien Gau represents the sixth generation in the family to run Maison Lucien Gau. This family affair, passed on from fathers to sons, ensures a safe transmission of the job’s trades and secrets – thus bestowing each piece from Maison Lucien Gau with unique value.
Tomorrow, Maison Lucien Gau expects to further unfold its talents as bronze crafter, supporting a specific French flair and lifestyle « à la française » , ranging from pure traditional to rather modern styles. « Bluebird chandelier », created in 2016 and cobranded with Verre L’Essentiel, is a perfect picture for this new momentum.
From Charles to Julien – a legacy of passion for bronze artwork
Charles Gau 1831-1892
Charles Gau
He is the first bronze craftsman in the lineage. Formerly a goldsmith, he turned to the manufacturing of decorative bronze-made artwork. His know-how applied to crafting jewel boxes, platters, statuettes or various eye-glasses holders and accessories.
Henri & Gérard Gau
Henri & Gérard Gau
After their father’s early death, Henri and Gérard, Lucien’s sons, take over with the help of their mother Claire. The House is then renamed « Etablissements Lucien Gau ». The workshops remain on Passage du Cheval Blanc, a few steps away from Faubourg Saint-Antoine in Paris. A special department dedicated to lamp shades manufacturing, as well as offices and the familiy’s premises, are inaugurated on the first floor, whereas the main production facilities remain on the ground floor. Back then, craftsmen usually lived next to their workplace – thus closely intertwining private and professional spheres.
Henri Gau 1860-1944
Henri Gau
Charles’s son, Henri, is the official founder of « Maison Gau » which offices are located on 56, rue des Tournelles in Paris, close to Place des Vosges. Benefiting from the development of electricity, under his supervision the firm will turn to the manufacturing of lighting objects, chandeliers, lamps and wall lamps, together with Art Nouveau furniture and accessories, not to mention replicas of 18th century artwork.
Lucien & Pascal Gau
Lucien & Pascal Gau
The two brothers Lucien and Pascal take over from their father Henri and uncle Gérard. Whereas their curriculum and respective occupations were to drag them away from the family business, they were caught back by family passion about bronze. The momentum they created led to expanding Maison Lucien Gau with the buyout of Maison Petitot, Hettier, Vincent et Raynaud. Aligned to the House’s genuine spirit, both brothers devoted their efforts to developing the company’s presence in new markets.
Lucien Gau 1895-1952
Lucien Gau
Lucien and his brother Augustin resume the House’s activity in the aftermath of 1929 crisis and World Wars, a troubled era for the company. Then named « Gau frères », the firm will continue under the supervision of both brothers until 1934 when they decide to split. Lucien then settles the company’s actual offices and manufacturing facilities on Passage du Cheval Blanc, 2 rue de la Roquette in Paris. Acting wise, Lucien will give the company a fresh start while developing and manufacturing multiple Art Déco and Modern Art creations.
Julien Gau
Julien Gau
2014 is the year when a 6th generation steps up. Julien, son of Lucien, joins the family history. Benefiting from professional experience acquired both in France and abroad, Julien is now proud to contribute to Maison Lucien Gau’s reputation. Bridging gaps between tradition and modern trends, Julien has endeavoured the company towards digital era, new technologies and social networks. He concurrently focuses on fostering and expanding the company’s presence on multiple markets.
A know-how that intertwines tradition and modern
Over time, craftsmen at Maison Lucien Gau have developed and refined their exceptional creative spirit and unique know-how in designing, manufacturing and replicating bronze artwork.
Our house has always promoted and favoured the tradition of French craftmanship - either to invent made-to measure artwork with sharp details, or render the genuine glow to ancient chandeliers – no matter what style or age.
Every stage of this meticulous work requires our staff to develop unique technical skills and a remarkable expertise when it comes to design, cast, turn, assemble, sculpt, gild, or apply glass to their artwork. Their ability to shape and embellish noble metals makes their work outstanding.
Manufacturing artwork objects and bronze lighting results in a succession of meticulous operations – all being developed, reviewed and enhanced inhouse from generation to generation, while always keeping up to date with the latest manufacturing processes.
