Chardin, John (1643–1713)

English traveller, who spent several years in India and Persia (Iran) where he was employed as a royal agent for the purchase of jewels. After returning to London in 1681 he was employed on diplomatic missions. He published Travels in Persia and the East Indies (3 volumes; 1686–1711).

He was born in Paris. He visited India and Persia during the period 1664–70. After revisiting Paris he left for Persia again in 1671 and remained there until 1677. In 1681 he returned to settle in London, where he was knighted by Charles II, and elected a fellow of the Royal Society.