The Nautical Commission in the 19th Century Antwerp

This paper discusses from the perspective of a legal historian the development of the institution of the Nautical Commission and the supervision of seaworthiness of vessels in Antwerp during the first half of the 19th century, mindful of the political and economic context. The possible influences of other actors onto the development of the Nautical Commission are taken into account, together with the needs and evolution of the maritime sector. In particular, the role of and interaction between classification societies and the Nautical Commission are analysed.