French naval leader.

Entered the navy at the age of fourteen and served with distinction. Studied naval architecture and was charged with overseeing the construction of frigates, including the first French cannonières, at Saint-Malo (1757). Rose steadily to the rank of brigadier (1782) and chef d’escadre (1784). Served as commandant of various French ports. Minister of marine (1791). Vice-admiral (1792).

Member of the Académie royale de marine (1773). Corresponding member (1778), membre titulaire (1785) of the Académie des sciences.

Was ennobled as comte de Thévenard (c. 1810).