
Rosarium Philosophorum
The "Rosarium Philosophorum," or "The Rosary of the Philosophers," is a key text in alchemy, dating back to the late 16th century. It presents a series of enigmatic images and symbols that illustrate the alchemical process, blending spiritual and physical transformation. The work emphasizes the quest for knowledge, self-discovery, and the philosopher's stone, a legendary substance believed to turn base metals into gold and grant immortality. It reflects the broader themes of mystical philosophy, merging scientific inquiry with spiritual enlightenment, influencing both the practices of later alchemists and the development of modern chemistry.