Zeebrugge - or Bruges Seaport, as it is sometimes called - came to be thanks to the efforts of many people. August de Maere, a Ghent-based hydraulic engineer, took the lead; he was supported by King Leopold II and a broad coalition of Bruges politicians from all parties. In this painting, local artist Charles Rousseau pays tribute to them. The central medallions depict the king, mayor Visart de Bocarmé and August de Maere. The side panels show a series of portraits of notables who also played a role in the realisation of the project.
The crowned woman in the centre, with the shield of Bruges on her breast, represents the city: Bruges as queen, with the sea as a source of wealth. Behind her, the new port stands out.