Design for the commemorative plaque of the 50th anniversary of the toll-free Scheldt.

Drawing, pencil, 17,4 x 23,6 cm, wove paper, signed and dated at bottom left: "Alf. Mauquoy 1913", at bottom centre: "1863 / SCHELDE VRIJ".

Excellent condition. Under passe-partout with the bronze commemorative plaque (5,6 x 7,5 cm, few spots). In gilt frame (not studied outside frame).

Allegorical scene with Mercury, god of trade, being liberated at the docks of the Scheldt in Antwerp. In the background a ship with a reference to the noble family of politicians de Marnix de Sainte-Aldegonde, and a personification of the Scheldt standing on a boat. The Scheldt becoming toll-free in 1863 was a major event in the history of Antwerp. It was celebrated by a monument still present on the Marnixplaats (design 1873, completed 1883). This Art Nouveau plaque designed by the Antwerp medallist Alfons Mauquoy (1880-1954) commemorates the 50th anniversary in 1913. The original drawing shows Mauquoy's design was followed carefully, but the signature and date were moved to the bottom right on the plaque.