On the Nature and Law of Waters

(one) + (15) Handwritten archival or library shelf-mark notations in pencil.

E

Hermetic Philosophy original: "PHILOSOPHIA · HERMETICA"

The printed slip features a circular emblem known as the Pelican in its Piety. In this alchemical and heraldic symbol, a mother pelican is depicted piercing her own breast to feed her three chicks with her blood. In the context of Hermeticism—a philosophical and esoteric tradition—this represents the stage of "multiplication" or the sacrifice required to nourish the growing "Great Work." The bird sits upon a white cube, a symbol of the Philosopher's Stone or material perfection, which is marked with a saltire An X-shaped cross, often representing the four elements or the union of opposites. and four circular points. A vibrant blue sunburst radiates behind the bird, suggesting divine light or spiritual illumination.