The Religious Ceremonies and Customs of All the Peoples of the World

A circular emblem is displayed on a square white paper background. The outer border of the emblem contains the inscription Hermetic Philosophy original Latin: "PHILOSOPHIA HERMETICA"; this refers to an esoteric philosophical and alchemical tradition attributed to Hermes Trismegistus. Inside the border is an oval scene depicting a white pelican in her piety. The bird is shown pecking her own breast to feed her three chicks in a nest, which is a traditional symbol of self-sacrifice and devotion. This scene is set against a blue sky with gold rays of light. Below the nest sits a small square shield featuring a red diagonal cross, also known as a saltire, with four red roses placed in each quarter. This combination of the pelican and the rose-cross is a hallmark of Rosicrucian symbolism, a mystical secret society.

Hermetic Philosophy, pelican in her piety, Rosicrucian, bookplate