Vigée

Vigée is a French term that can refer to several things, most notably a specific type of ship's boat and a surname.

As a nautical term, a vigée, also known as a gig, is a small, fast, and light rowing boat, typically propelled by two to four oarsmen. Historically, gigs were used by naval vessels and merchant ships for various purposes, including carrying dispatches, transporting officers, and for quick shore excursions. Their speed and maneuverability made them valuable for communication and rapid transit. The design of a vigée often emphasized a narrow beam and a sharp bow to reduce water resistance.

As a surname, Vigée is of French origin. It is most famously associated with Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842), a prominent portrait painter during the late 18th century. She was the principal painter to Queen Marie Antoinette and enjoyed a successful career, creating numerous portraits of European royalty and aristocracy. Her work is characterized by its elegance, intimacy, and skillful rendering of her subjects. The surname Vigée is not common but is recognizable due to the artist's significant contributions to art history.