Born in Metz in 1637. Trained as a draughtsman and etcher in his father's goldsmithing workshop. Influenced by the works of Jacques Callot. 1665 moved to Paris and became acquainted with Charles Le Brun. Specialised in printmaking and etching. 1667 appointed professor of geometry and perspective at the Paris Academy, and in 1690 succeeded Claude Mellan as 'Premier graveur du Roi'. His varied activities make clear the new integration and status of graphics within art production promoted by the court. Died in Paris in 1714.
