An ornamental rectangular woodcut headpiece featuring symmetrical foliate scrolls and floral motifs, with two central cherub-like figures flanking a decorative ornament.

PREFACE

To the

READER.

Since Chemistry original: Chymie; in the 17th century, this term was used interchangeably for both practical chemical science and the older traditions of alchemy. is rightfully one of the oldest arts, it is by no means the least: for it investigates all powers and the interconnectedness of things, not only in plants and animals, but it even penetrates to the innermost core of metals and minerals, decomposing them and joining them back together again. Tubal-cain A biblical figure from Genesis 4:22, described as an "instructor of every artificer in brass and iron"; he was historically regarded by early modern scientists as the legendary founder of metallurgy and chemistry. seems to have laid the first stone regarding copper and iron, since he could not easily forge...