Manichaeism before the Manichaeans, and its Revival in Christianity

Mani
Dis n. f 999??

E

A central emblem, likely a bookplate, features an oval scene surrounded by the words "Hermetic Philosophy" original: "Philosophia Hermetica" in a circular arrangement. The vignette depicts a "pelican in her piety." This is a traditional symbol of sacrifice where a pelican feeds her chicks with her own blood. The pelican and her nest sit atop a white cubic pedestal decorated with three red roses. Above the pelican is a radiant sun with golden rays set against a blue sky. A green laurel or olive wreath frames the entire scene. In the context of Hermeticism (a philosophical system based on writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus) and alchemy, these symbols represent spiritual purification and the nurturing of the soul.