Zilveren schep waarmee landvoogd Karel Alexander de eerste spade in de grond heeft gestoken voor het nieuwe kanaal bij Leuven, 1750 1750

This etching by Antwerp artist Antoine Opdebeeck depicts the silver shovel used by Charles Alexander, the governor of the Habsburg Netherlands, to break ground for a new canal in Leuven in 1750. The ornate design features a coat of arms with a crowned eagle, two shields with the inscription "HIC DAT CANALEM", and numerous decorative ribbons. The artist captured the ceremonial significance of the occasion through the use of detailed ornamentation and a stylized depiction of the shovel. The etching reflects the Baroque style popular in the 18th century, characterized by its dramatic use of light and shadow, elaborate flourishes, and intricate details.