Antoine François, comte de Fourcroy 1755 – 1809

Biography

Antoine François, comte de Fourcroy was born on June 15, 1755, in Paris during a period of great scientific awakening in France. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to the study and advancement of chemistry, a field undergoing profound transformation during the late eighteenth century. His work in this discipline earned him recognition among the scientific community of his time.

Living his entire life in Paris, Fourcroy witnessed and participated in one of history’s most turbulent eras. He spent fifty-four years contributing to his chosen field before his death on December 16, 1809, when he suffered a myocardial infarction. His final resting place is at the Grave of Fourcroy in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, a city that had been central to both his life and his scientific endeavors.

The arc of Fourcroy’s life—born, lived, and laid to rest in Paris—reflects a man deeply rooted in his native city. His dedication to chemistry and his presence during this formative period in scientific history mark him as a figure of note in French intellectual life.