Louise Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842) was a renowned French portraitist celebrated for her elegant and refined depictions of European aristocracy. Born in Paris, she showed artistic talent early, guided by her father, a pastel artist. After his death, she continued her training and began her professional career by her teens. In 1776, she married painter and art dealer Jean-Baptiste Pierre Le Brun. Her career soared when she became the official portraitist of Queen Marie Antoinette in 1778, producing over 30 portraits that significantly shaped the Queen’s public image. Her works are noted for their vivid color, flattering realism, and ability to capture her sitters' personalities. The French Revolution forced her to flee France in 1789, leading to a 12-year exile during which she painted in Italy, Austria, and Russia, gaining patronage from prominent figures, including Catherine the Great. She returned to France in 1802 and continued to receive commissions, maintaining her reputation. Vigée Le Brun's legacy lies in her masterful technique, her role in promoting female artists, and her detailed memoirs, "Souvenirs," which provide valuable insights into her life and the era's cultural landscape. Her portraits remain celebrated for their elegance and expressive depth.