diff --git a/lib/matplotlib/mathtext.py b/lib/matplotlib/mathtext.py
index 15aae2215015..0e9596a7c54d 100644
--- a/lib/matplotlib/mathtext.py
+++ b/lib/matplotlib/mathtext.py
@@ -1978,7 +1978,7 @@ def __init__(self, elements):
                        do_kern=False)
 
 
-class VCentered(Hlist):
+class VCentered(Vlist):
     """
     A convenience class to create a `Vlist` whose contents are
     centered within its enclosing box.