Jean-Baptiste is a common French name that can refer to various historical and cultural figures. One of the most notable is Jean-Baptiste Colbert, a 17th-century French statesman who served as the Minister of Finance under King Louis XIV. He is known for his role in developing the French economy and promoting mercantilism. Another prominent figure is Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin, an 18th-century French painter celebrated for his still-life works. His art often depicted everyday objects with a focus on light and texture, contributing significantly to the genre of still life in European art history.