From alchemy to chemistry, 19th century
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
From alchemy to chemistry, 19th century
From alchemy to chemistry, 19th-century artwork. Alchemy is represented by the middle-aged man in the foreground, carrying out a distillation with an alembic. The female muse figure behind him holds a globe representing the world. The young man in the background at left represents the new science of chemistry. He is using a lens to focus sunlight and heat an object inside a bell jar. Modern chemistry began to emerge in the late 18th century. This engraving by the English artist John Chapman was published in 1805 as Chemistry in Encyclopaedia Londinensis. The original work was by the English artist Richard Corbould (1757-1831)
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Media ID 9213165
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1805 Alchemical Alchemist Alchemy Apparatus Art History Burning Chemist Combusting Distillation Distilling Encyclopaedia Londinensis Engraving Experiment Experimenting Globe Lens Muse Representation Representing Researcher Researching Scientist Sunlight Symbol Symbolic Symbolism Symbols Telescope Transition Wove Paper Alembic John Chapman Laboratory Metaphor
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 19th-century artwork titled "From Alchemy to Chemistry" beautifully captures the transition from ancient alchemical practices to the emerging field of modern chemistry. In the foreground, a middle-aged man meticulously carries out a distillation process using an alembic, symbolizing the age-old practice of alchemy. Behind him stands a female muse figure holding a globe, representing the vast world that awaits exploration and discovery through scientific inquiry. In contrast, in the background at left, a young man represents the new science of chemistry. He focuses sunlight through a lens onto an object inside a bell jar, showcasing experimentation and research in this evolving field. This engraving by English artist John Chapman was published in 1805 as part of Encyclopaedia Londinensis. The intricate details and symbolism within this artwork highlight not only the historical significance but also emphasize how chemistry emerged as its own distinct discipline during this period. The combination of old and new elements serves as a metaphor for humanity's continuous quest for knowledge and understanding. Through its depiction of various apparatuses, laboratory settings, and diverse characters engaged in scientific pursuits, this print offers viewers an insightful glimpse into both art history and scientific progress during the 19th century. It is truly an exquisite representation of how art can intersect with science to convey complex ideas visually.
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