An illustration from an alchemical treatise from 1622. The title reads "exaltatio." Alchemy was the pseudo-scientific predecessor of chemistry. Among other pursuits, alchemists searched for formulas that would turn base metals into gold. They sought wisdo

This image could have imperfections as it’s either historical or reportage.

An illustration from an alchemical treatise from 1622. The title reads "exaltatio." Alchemy was the pseudo-scientific predecessor of chemistry. Among other pursuits, alchemists searched for formulas that would turn base metals into gold. They sought wisdom and the secret to immortality.