Hermetic Museum transports readers into a magical mystery that spans from the medieval cosmography and the images of Christian mysticism, to the fascinating world of alchemy and the art of the Romantic era. The enigmatic hieroglyphs of the Kabbalists, the Rosicrucians, and the Freemasons are closely linked to early scientific illustrations in the fields of medicine, chemistry, optics, and color theory. Even for those who are not familiar with the enchanting history of alchemy, this book is a pleasure to explore. Each richly illustrated chapter begins with an introduction and excerpts from alchemists by expert Alexander Roob. The roots of surrealism and many other more recent artistic movements lie within this treasure.