On Secret Marks of Letters

278 91? original: "278 91"; likely a library shelf mark or archival accession number

H

A central emblem is set within a white rectangular frame. The emblem has a circular border containing the words Hermetic Philosophy in pale gold lettering. Inside the circle is an oval scene with a blue background. It shows a white pelican in its nest. The bird pecks its own breast to feed its three chicks with its blood. This motif is known as the pelican in her piety. Above the pelican is a radiant sun with golden rays. Below the nest is a square heraldic shield. The shield displays four red roses arranged in a cross pattern. This imagery is closely linked to Rosicrucianism and Hermetic alchemy.

original: "PHILOSOPHIA · HERMETICA"

Hermetic Philosophy: A philosophical and esoteric tradition based on writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus. It explores the relationship between the macrocosm of the universe and the microcosm of the human being.

Pelican in her Piety: A symbolic image of a mother pelican feeding her young from her own blood. In alchemy, this represents the stage of "multiplication" and the spirit of self sacrifice required for the Great Work.

Rosicrucianism: A spiritual movement that emerged in the early 17th century. It combined elements of Lutheranism, alchemy, and Hermeticism.

Alchemy: An ancient branch of natural philosophy. Practitioners sought to purify and perfect materials, such as turning base metals into gold or creating an elixir of life.

Court of Justice, The Hague: original: "GERECHTSHOF DEN HAAG" An archival stamp indicating the volume was once part of a legal collection in the Netherlands.