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The Hermetic Vessel, c1760
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The Hermetic Vessel, c1760
The Hermetic Vessel, c1760. A hermetic vessel in the alchemical furnace. The serpent within the vase symbolises the earthy substances of which the Philosophers Stone is made. From Fr Basilii Valentini Benedictiner Ordens Chymische Schriften. (Leipzig, 1760?). Basil Valentine (Basilius Valentinus) is a shadowy 15th century figure. He is supposed to have been a Benedictine monk, and is credited with a deep knowledge of alchemical mysteries. Whether the books attributed to him are his work, or that of 16th century alchemists who used his name, is open to debate. His famous Twelve Keys (being the twelve stages to the possession of the Philosophers Stone) was first published in 1599 and continued to appear in various languages until the end of the 18th century
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Media ID 14862656
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Alchemy Basil Chemistry Furnace Oxford Science Archive Philosophers Stone Serpent Symbol Valentine Basil Valentine
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The Hermetic Vessel, c1760
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is a captivating print that transports us back to the enigmatic world of alchemy in the 18th century. In this intriguing image, we see a hermetic vessel placed within an alchemical furnace, symbolizing the pursuit of the elusive Philosophers Stone. The serpent coiled inside the vase represents the earthly substances from which this mythical stone is believed to be made. The origins of this artwork are shrouded in mystery, much like its attributed creator Basil Valentine. A shadowy figure from the 15th century, Valentine was said to possess profound knowledge of alchemical secrets. However, scholars still debate whether he truly authored the books associated with his name or if they were written by later alchemists using his identity. One of Valentine's most renowned works was "The Twelve Keys" outlining twelve stages leading to possession of the Philosophers Stone. First published in 1599, it continued to captivate readers across different languages until well into the late 18th century. This monochrome engraving offers us a glimpse into an era when science and mysticism intertwined seamlessly. It serves as a testament to humanity's enduring fascination with unlocking nature's hidden truths through chemistry and alchemy. As we gaze upon this mesmerizing print from Anon (creator) and Basil Valentine himself (or those who adopted his name), we are reminded that even centuries later, these ancient symbols continue to inspire curiosity and wonder about our world's deepest mysteries.
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