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The Hermetic Vessel, c1760. Hermetic vessel in the alchemical furnace. The serpent
Filename: 917_05_0460001716.jpg
Size: 6000 x 10940 (20.3MB)
Date: 28th March 2014
Source: Universal Images Group (UIG)
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
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The Hermetic Vessel, c1760. Hermetic vessel in the alchemical furnace. The serpent
The Hermetic Vessel, c1760. 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, 1760ja). 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 a 16th century alchemists who used his name, is open to debate. His famous Twelve Keys (being the twelve stages to the possession of the Philosphers 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 9767925
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
1599 15th 16th 18th Alchemical Alchemy Attributed Basil Benedictine Books Century Chemistry Continued Credited Debate Deep Famous Figure Furnace Keys Knowledge Languages Leipzig Monk Open Philosopher Published Science Serpent Stages Stone Supposed Twelve Valentine Vase Vessel Work Alchemists Basilius C1760 Earthy Hermetic Mysteries Philospher Possession Shadowy Substances Symbolises Valentini Valentinus
The Hermetic Vessel, c1760 - A Glimpse into Alchemical Mysteries
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This print showcases "The Hermetic Vessel" a significant artifact from the 18th century that holds deep symbolism within the realm of alchemy. Placed within an alchemical furnace, this hermetic vessel is believed to contain the secrets of transmutation and the creation of the Philosopher's Stone. The serpent coiled inside the vase represents the earthly substances used in crafting this legendary stone. The image originates from Fr Basilii Valentini Benedictiner Ordens Chymische Schriften, a book published in Leipzig in 1760. However, its true authorship remains shrouded in mystery as Basil Valentine himself is a shadowy figure from either the 15th or 16th century. Valentine, whether real or pseudonymous, was credited with profound knowledge of alchemical arts. His renowned work "Twelve Keys" outlines twelve stages leading to possession of the Philosopher's Stone and has been published in various languages until late into the 18th century. As we gaze upon this enigmatic photograph, we are transported back to an era where chemistry and mysticism intertwined. It invites us to ponder on ancient wisdom and contemplate whether these texts attributed to Valentine were indeed his own creations or those of later alchemists who adopted his name. Through this visual representation, we catch a glimpse into a world filled with intrigue and wonder—a testament to humanity's ceaseless pursuit of understanding nature's deepest secrets through both science and philosophy.
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