Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
In alchemy, the Magnum Opus or Great Work is a term for the process of working with the prima materia to create the philosopher's stone. It has been used to describe personal and spiritual transmutation in the Hermetic tradition , attached to laboratory processes and chemical color changes, used as a model for the individuation process, and as ...
For many centuries, it was the most sought-after goal in alchemy. The philosopher's stone was the central symbol of the mystical terminology of alchemy, symbolizing perfection at its finest, divine illumination, and heavenly bliss. Efforts to discover the philosopher's stone were known as the Magnum Opus ("Great Work"). [3]
The squared circle: an alchemical symbol (17th century) illustrating the interplay of the four elements of matter symbolising the philosopher's stone. Antimony â (in Newton), also ; Arsenic ðš Bismuth â (in Newton), ð (in Bergman) Cobalt (approximately ðķ) (in Bergman) Manganese (in Bergman)
Lapis solaris (Bologna stone) – barium sulfide – 1603, Vincenzo Cascariolo. Lead fume – lead oxide, found in flues at lead smelters. Lime/quicklime (burnt lime)/calx viva/unslaked lime – calcium oxide, formed by calcining limestone; Slaked lime – calcium hydroxide. Ca(OH) 2; Marcasite – a mineral; iron disulfide.
Projection was the ultimate goal of Western alchemy. Once the philosopher's stone or powder of projection had been created, the process of projection would be used to transmute a lesser substance into a higher form; often lead into gold. Typically, the process is described as casting a small portion of the Stone into a molten base metal.
The Alchemist in Search of the Philosopher's Stone, by Joseph Wright, 1771. Nicolas Flamel is a well-known alchemist to the point where he had many pseudepigraphic imitators. Although the historical Flamel existed, the writings and legends assigned to him only appeared in 1612. [88] [89]
Thaumaturgy (/ Ë θ ÉË m É t ÉËr dĘ i / â) is the practical application of magic to effect change in the physical world. Historically, thaumaturgy has been associated with the manipulation of natural forces, the creation of wonders, and the performance of magical feats through esoteric knowledge and ritual practice.
An 1874 engraving showing a probably apocryphal account of Newton's lab fire. In the story, Newton's dog, Diamond, started the fire, burning 20 years of research. Newton is thought to have said: "O Diamond, Diamond, thou little knowest the mischief thou hast done." [2]