Next Generation of Blacksmiths

In the spring of 2026, Wiemann gifted a series of bookends created by a member of our team to select clients and partners.

The craftsman that created the pieces is Niel Arbman, a 24-year-old apprentice blacksmith nearing completion of a program with the The Compagnons du Devoir. He came to us in September of last year and has been advancing his skills throughout the shop, working on various projects in our queue. His home is a small town near Nice in the south of France where he lives with his mother.

Wiemann has proudly sponsored the apprenticeship program for several years, and many of Niel's colleagues, fellow guild members, have worked on projects of note, including the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral. The designs of the bookends are from Niel, with Wiemann input.

Our commitment to maintaining excellence in our work and to support the development of new talent motivate Wiemann participate in the program. Our sponsorship of Niel is not just commercial, it is cultural, creating opportunities throughout our organization to learn from others, to share our own expertise, and create better understanding and cooperation among people.

We congratulate Niel on his creativity and emerging craftsmanship and hope that the recipients of these bookends will treasure them for years to come.