cisles

A cisle is a type of sailing vessel characterized by its unusual rigging. The term "cisle" is derived from the French word "ciseau," meaning scissors, which alludes to the distinctive arrangement of the sails and spars. In a cisle rig, the sails are set in a fore-and-aft manner, similar to a sloop or cutter, but with a crucial difference in the mast configuration. Typically, a cisle rig features two masts, often of unequal height, positioned very close together. The sails are then set between these two masts, with the foremost mast carrying a sail that can be attached to both masts. This creates a sail plan that resembles the blades of a pair of scissors when viewed from the side. This configuration allows for efficient handling of sails in a variety of wind conditions and can be advantageous for sailing in confined waters. Historically, cisle-rigged vessels were found in certain regions, particularly in European waters, and were often used for coastal trade or as fishing boats. The specific design and proportions of the masts and sails could vary, but the fundamental principle of sails set between closely spaced masts remained a defining feature. While not as common as more conventional rigs today, the cisle represents an interesting variation in sailing technology.