Mythology and Fables Explained by History

E

original: "PHILOSOPHIA HERMETICA"

A circular emblem is pasted on a white square. The outer ring contains the text "Hermetic Philosophy" in gold toned capital letters. The central oval vignette depicts a "pelican in its piety." This is a traditional image of a mother pelican pecking her breast to feed three chicks in a nest with her blood. It serves as a symbol of sacrifice. Above the pelican is a radiant sun with beams of light. Below the nest is a small heraldic shield containing four stylized flowers, possibly roses. The scene is set against a blue background.