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Geber, Islamic alchemist
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Geber, Islamic alchemist
Geber (c.722-c.815), Islamic Spanish alchemist, teaching chemistry. Geber is a Latinised form. His full Arabic name is Jabir ibn Hayyan. Geber is sometimes known as the Father of Chemistry, as he was instrumental in turning it from a mystical practice (alchemy) into a science. He insisted on mastery of practical chemistry, and invented much of the equipment still used in laboratories today. Although he worked on the alchemists goal of turning base metals into gold, he did so in a scientific manner. His writings included work on furnaces, crystallisation and distillation. He also described common compounds and substances, including acids, bases and salts. Here, he is pictured teaching at the school at Edessa in Mesopotamia (now Sanliurfa in Turkey). Engraving from the 1883 edition of Vies des Savants Illustres
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1883 700s 800s 8th Century 9th Century Alchemy Arab Chemist Class Room Dark Ages Demonstration Engraving Experiment Experimenting Islamic Learning Listening Medieval Mesopotamia Muslim Portraits Pupil Pupils Scientist Spanish Student Students Surname G Teacher Teaching Vies Des Savants Illustres Edessa Geber Mono Chrome
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This print showcases Geber, an Islamic alchemist who played a pivotal role in transforming chemistry from a mystical practice into a scientific discipline. Geber, also known as Jabir ibn Hayyan, is often hailed as the Father of Chemistry due to his insistence on practical mastery and his invention of laboratory equipment still utilized today. While he pursued the alchemists' dream of transmuting base metals into gold, he approached it with a scientific mindset. The engraving depicts Geber imparting his wisdom at the school in Edessa, located in Mesopotamia (now Sanliurfa in Turkey). This historical scene captures the essence of medieval education and highlights Geber's significant contributions to chemical knowledge. His writings encompassed various subjects such as furnaces, crystallization, distillation, acids, bases, salts, and more. In this 19th-century artwork from Vies des Savants Illustres edition published in 1883 by Science Photo Library, we witness Geber engaging with eager pupils within a classroom setting. The illustration exudes an air of intellectual curiosity and experimentation that defined this era. It serves as a testament to Geber's enduring legacy and influence on future generations of scientists. As we gaze upon this monochrome masterpiece filled with intricate details and historical significance, we are reminded of the profound impact that individuals like Geber have had on shaping our understanding of chemistry and propelling it towards becoming an esteemed science rather than mere mysticism.
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