2-798-753 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Illumination of Antwerp, at Her Majesty's Return, 1845. Firework display in honour of Queen Victoria's visit to Belgium: '...sheaves of rockets went roaring into the air, scattering their brilliant stars over the [River] Scheldt...thousands of boats...freighted with the worthy citizens of Antwerp, and carrying torches of pine in the bow and stern, floated to and fro, chanting their national airs in full, deep chorus, and with these were mingled the oaths...that followed the frequent collisions of the river craft...the whole of the magnificent tower [of the cathedral] was illuminated with Bengal lights. The effect was extremely fine, every taper shaft and pillar, carved ornament, and delicate tracery of this most beautiful specimen of Gothic architecture being distinctly revealed, and standing out like pure white marble on the dark sky. A loud burst of applause followed this magnificent spectacle...'. From "Illustrated London News", 1845, Vol VII.