The multiplication or reproduction of hepatic stellate cells, resulting in the expansion of a hepatic stellate cell population. Hepatic stellate cells are found in the perisinusoidal space of the liver, and are capable of multiple roles including storage of retinol, presentation of antigen to T cells (including CD1d-restricted NKT cells), and upon activation, production of extracellular matrix components. This cell type comprises approximately 8-15% of total cells in the liver. [ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18466260 GOC:sl http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15358192 ]