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Splendor Solis, Solomon Trismosin, 1532

Writer's picture: Jean MichelJean Michel

Splendor Solis is an alchemical treatise created in the 16th century by the alchemist and physician Solomon Trismosin –– alchemical teacher of Paracelsus. The earliest version, considered to be that now in the Kupferstichkabinett in the Prussian State Museum in Berlin, is dated 1532-35. The later copies are located in London, Kassel, Paris and Nuremberg.


The book is composed of 22 elaborate engravings that depict a series of alchemical processes and symbolic images that are meant to convey the spiritual transformation of the alchemist. It is notable for its intricate and detailed artwork, which features a range of mystical and mythical creatures, as well as symbolic depictions of the Sun and Moon. Each illustration is accompanied by a text that explains the symbolism and offers guidance for the alchemist's journey.


The symbolic process shows the classical alchemical death and rebirth of the king, and incorporates a series of seven flasks, each associated with one of the planets. The surrounding scenes depict the activities and significations of each planet.


Within the flasks a process is shown involving the transformation of bird and animal symbols into the Queen and King, the white and the red tincture.




Feeding the Dragon (Saturn above). Emblem 12 Description: A crowned flask with open top is heated upon some flames. Within the flask a young naked boy works a pair of bellows within the mouth of a winged dragon.

The Three Birds (Jupiter above). Emblem 13 Description: A crowned flask with open top is heated upon some flames. Within this three birds are fighting each other.

The Triple-Headed Eagle (Mars above). Emblem 14 Description: A crowned flask with open top is heated upon some flames. Within it a three headed cockerel, each head bearing a crown, stands with wings outspread.

The Three Headed Dragon (Sun above). Emblem 15 Description: Within a crowned flask with sealed top is a three headed winged dragon.


The Peacock (Venus above). Emblem 16 Description: Within a crowned flask with sealed top, a peacock reveals its resplendent tail.

The Lunar Queen (Mercury above). Emblem 17 Description: Within a crowned flask with open top, a Queen stands holding an orb in her right and a sceptre in her left hand.


The Red King (Moon above). Emblem 18 Description: Within a crowned flask with open top, a King stands holding an orb in his left and a sceptre in his right hand.

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