Collection: Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais
Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais (24 January 1732 – 18 May 1799) was at various times a watchmaker, inventor, playwright, musician, diplomat, spy, publisher, gardener, arms dealer, satirist, financier, and revolutionary (both French and American). Born the son of a Parisian watchmaker, he became known at the court of Louis XV as an inventor and music teacher. He was a diplomat and spy, and amassed a considerable fortune before a series of costly legal battles threatened his reputation and fortune.
Beaumarchais oversaw secret aid from the French and Spanish governments to the American rebels in the years leading up to France's formal entry into the war with Great Britain in 1778. He was also a participant in the initial events of the French Revolution of 1789. However, he is best known for his theatrical works, particularly those describing the adventures of the famous Figaro.
