Karel Lotharingen

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The life-size bronze statue on more than 3 meters high bluestone pedestal situated at the north corner of Museum Square in Brussels towers above the landscape, depicting Prince Charles Alexander of Lorraine, a renowned Austrian general and soldier who commanded forces during the War of the Austrian Succession. Born in Lunéville in 1712, Charles de Lorraine was a key figure in Imperial service, serving alongside his brother-in-law, Holy Roman Empress Maria Theresa. The statue itself is a masterpiece crafted by Louis Jehotte in 1848, showcasing Prince Charles de Lorraine in full Marshal's regalia, adorned with the Chain of the Order of the Golden Fleece and the Cross of the Teutonic Order. Charles Alexandre Emanuel de Lorraine was a man of great distinction, serving as governor and de facto sovereign of the Austrian Netherlands. Born to Leopold Joseph, Duke of Lorraine, and Élisabeth Charlotte d'Orléans, Charles Alexander entered Imperial service in 1737 after his brother Francis Stephen, Duke of Lorraine, married Maria Theresa's daughter. His military prowess was evident during the War of the Austrian Succession, where he led forces against formidable foes like Frederick the Great at the Battle of Chotusitz and Maurice de Saxe at the Battle of Rocoux. In 1744, Charles Alexander married Maria Anna of Austria, Maria Theresa's sister, making him doubly connected to the Empress. The pair were jointly appointed as Governors of the Austrian Netherlands, with Charles continuing in this role after Maria Anna's death in 1744 due to his popularity and lack of clear replacement. His tenure was marked by significant events, including his brother Francis Stephen relinquishing the throne of the Holy Roman Empire and the duchy Lorraine passing between France and Austria. Charles de Lorraine also held important positions within the Teutonic Order, becoming Grand Master in 1761. His close relationship with his sister Anne Charlotte made her a natural choice to act as co-sovereign after Maria Anna's death. The loss of his co-ruler led to a period of uncertainty, but Charles' reputation and influence allowed him to maintain power until his own demise in 1780.