The Hermetic Museum (1783-1785) - Page 20

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The existence of the art of transforming imperfect metals In alchemical theory, "imperfect" or "base" metals like lead, tin, or copper were thought to be "sick" versions of "perfect" metals. into perfect ones Referring to gold and silver, which were considered chemically stable and "mature." has always been the original: "Zankapfel," an idiom meaning "apple of discord" or a bone of contention. bone of contention among scholars; and not infrequently, it had to endure being judged by people who did not even have enough healthy brain in their heads to associate a correct concept with the word: Alchemy. The rational portion argued in its favor; the opposing group contested it; and the third group granted its possibility,