- Listenly
- Public Library
- All Authors
- François Chicoyneau
author
François Chicoyneau
1672–1752
A leading French physician of the Enlightenment era, he became known for his work in medicine and botany and for advising during the plague crisis in Marseille. His career also brought him to the royal court, where he served as first physician to Louis XV.
1 Audiobook
A Succinct Account of the Plague at Marseilles
by François Chicoyneau, Monsieur Soulier, active 1720-1721 Monsieur Verny
About the author
Born in 1672, François Chicoyneau was a French doctor, botanist, and medical teacher whose career was closely tied to the University of Montpellier. He held chairs in anatomy and botany there and became an important figure in the school’s leadership over the first half of the 18th century.
He is especially remembered for his role during the 1720 plague of Marseille, when he was sent with other physicians to observe and report on the epidemic. His writings and official reports helped shape how the outbreak was understood at the time.
Later in life, Chicoyneau rose to one of the highest medical posts in France, serving as first physician to King Louis XV from 1732 until his death in 1752. His work placed him at the intersection of scholarship, public health, and royal service.