Physician, naturalist, writer.

Admitted to the bar. Gave up the legal profession in favor of medicine (1750). Received as a physician at Nancy (1763). Became the physician to King Stanislas, but left his position to study botany. Participated in the creation of the Jardin des Plantes at Nancy, where he offered courses in botany and natural history. A prolific writer on natural history, medicine, and political economy. Attempted to sell his extensive book collection, first to Franklin in 1778 and then to Buffon in 1788.

Born at Metz.