Chemical Works

A two-part symbolic and allegorical engraving set within a rectangular border. The top section features a central hermetic or alchemical symbol, resembling a modified version of John Dee's Monas Hieroglyphica A complex symbol representing the unity of the cosmos, combining the signs for the moon, sun, elements, and fire., contained within an ornate scrolled oval frame. The four corners of the inner frame contain circular medallions representing the four elements. Top-left: A sun with a human face, labeled "Fire." Top-right: A crescent moon with a human face, labeled "Air." Bottom-left: A terrestrial landscape with hills, labeled "Earth." Bottom-right: A sea scene with a figure emerging from waves, labeled "Water." The Latin phrase "Let him who does not understand either be silent or learn" is inscribed around the border of this section.

The bottom section depicts an allegorical battle. On the left stands a bearded man with a radiant, sun-like halo. He holds a globus cruciger A cross-bearing orb representing earthly and spiritual dominion. and a shield bearing a cross and a heart with the letters "I P K." He tramples a serpent underfoot. On the right, three figures personifying vices attack him with bows and arrows. One is labeled "Envy" with snakes for hair, another "Wrath" in the foreground, and a third in the background below the word "Hatred." In the far background, a city is engulfed in flames and smoke.

Let him who does not understand original Latin: "QUI NON INTELLIGIT"

or let him learn original Latin: "AUT DISCAT"