Established in Paris in 1800, Gagneau gained renown for enhancing the Carcel oil lamp, showcased at the 1819 National Industry Products Exhibition. The firm, based at 115 rue Lafayette in the 19th century, specialized in high-quality lighting materials, earning Premier Medals in 1851 and 1855. Notable as a bronzer and lighting manufacturer, Gagneau served on the jury for the Artistic Bronzes Class in 1889 and supplied lighting for the French Embassy in Vienna in 1908.