Fournier, Daniel (Mad Geometer)
Daniel Fournier (Mad Geometer; c. 1711 - 1766) was a French-British engraver, likely of Huguenot descent, based in England. Fournier is an elusive figure. A single engraving of him, a self-portrait, survives in the Royal Collection Trust, where he describes himself as an 'à-la-mode beef-seller, shoemaker, and engraver'. He also, according to the Dictionary of National Biography, sold butter and eggs, modeled in wax, and taught drawing. In 1761, he published A Treatise of the Theory and Practice of Perspective, wherein the Principles of that most Useful Art are Laid Down.... Apparently, when writing this work, he developed the habit of making chalk diagrams on alehouse tables; he thus became known locally as the 'Mad Geometer'. Fournier engraved several maps, including a survey of the Leeward Islands, and the monumental Caskell-Simpson map of Jamaica. He died in Wild Court, Wild Street, London, in 1766.
AKA: Mad Geometer
We're Still Hunting
We don't yet have any maps by this cartographer in stock — but that's more a matter of timing than availability. New acquisitions arrive regularly, and pieces from this maker do surface. Check back soon, or reach out if you're specifically looking for one — we're always happy to keep an eye out.
Have a map by this cartographer you're looking to sell? We'd love to hear from you.