Brussels. (Bruxelles) - Society for the Diffusion Baldwin 1837

Brussels. (Bruxelles) - Society for the Diffusion Baldwin 1837

Original antique map of Brussels crafted by B.R. Davies and published by Baldwin & Cradock in 1837.

Baldwin & Cradock, a prominent publishing house in London, collaborated with the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (SDUK) to produce detailed, accurate, and clear maps and atlases, covering a wide range of geographical areas, including town plans, regional maps, and world atlases.

In 1837, Brussels was part of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, a state established in 1815 after Napoleon's defeat at the Battle of Waterloo.
Following the Congress of Vienna, the Southern Netherlands (modern-day Belgium and Luxembourg) united with the Northern Netherlands (present-day Netherlands) to form the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, ruled by King William I.
This union, however, was marked by cultural and religious tensions between the predominantly Catholic and French-speaking southern provinces and the largely Protestant and Dutch-speaking northern provinces.

Notable Buildings Featured on the Map:

The King's Palace (Royal Palace of Brussels)
History: Originally constructed in the late 18th century, the Royal Palace underwent significant renovations and expansions during the early 19th century, particularly under the reign of William I of the Netherlands.
Significance: Serving as the official residence of the monarchy and a political power center, the palace is prominently situated in front of Brussels Park and remains a significant landmark.

Theatre (Royal Theatre of La Monnaie)
History: Initially built in 1700, the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie was reconstructed in a neoclassical style between 1819 and 1820 after a fire.
Significance: A major cultural venue for opera and theatre, the theatre was a vital part of Brussels' rich cultural life and played a significant role in the city's social and cultural events.

Exhibition of the Productions of National Industry (Exposition des Produits de l'Industrie Nationale)
History: This building hosted exhibitions showcasing the nation's industrial and artistic products, part of early industrial fairs aimed at promoting national industry.
Significance: These exhibitions were crucial for stimulating economic activity and innovation during the Industrial Revolution.

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral
History: With construction beginning in the 13th century and continuing into the 16th century, this Gothic cathedral is one of Brussels' most important religious buildings.
Significance: Serving as the primary church for the city, it became a symbol of national identity, particularly after the Belgian Revolution of 1830.

Botanic Garden (Jardin Botanique de Bruxelles)
History: Established in 1826, the Botanic Garden was designed to serve both scientific and educational purposes, showcasing a wide variety of plants.
Significance: It was an important site for botanical research and public education, contributing significantly to the scientific and cultural development of Brussels.

Palace of the States General (Palais de la Nation)
History: Built in the late 18th century, this building originally housed the Council of Brabant and became the seat of the Belgian Federal Parliament after the Belgian Revolution.
Significance: It has been a central location for political life in Belgium, housing both the Chamber of Representatives and the Senate.

Building of the Prince of Orange (Palais des Princes d'Orange)
History: This building served as the residence of the Prince of Orange during the United Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Significance: Associated with the royal family, it played a role in the political and social life of the time. After the Belgian Revolution, it had various administrative uses.

Palace of Justice (Palais de Justice)
History: The original Palace of Justice in Brussels was not the massive structure seen today (constructed between 1866 and 1883). In the early 19th century, judicial functions were housed in smaller, less grandiose buildings.
Significance: It served as the center of judicial activity in Brussels, reflecting the city's role as an administrative hub.

These buildings collectively represent the political, cultural, scientific, and social life of Brussels during the early 19th century, showcasing the city's development and modernization during a period of significant change and growth.

Sheet app.: 41 x 34 cm. 16 x 13.25 inches.
Image app.: 38 x 30 cm. 15 x 11.75 inches.
Condition: Nice map in good condition, with some toning and age-related wear, original hand coloring.

Keywords: Brussels old map, Belgium by Baldwin & Cradock 1837, Royal Palace of Brussels, Royal Theatre of La Monnaie, Exposition des Produits de l'Industrie Nationale, St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, Jardin Botanique de Bruxelles, Palais de la Nation, Palais des Princes d'Orange, Palais de Justice.