The four elements, from an alchemical treatise. The classical Greek theory that all materials were made up of four elements persisted among philosophers and doctors as late as the 16th century, when this illustration was made. Alchemy was the pseudo-scien

The four elements, from an alchemical treatise. The classical Greek theory that all materials were made up of four elements persisted among philosophers and doctors as late as the 16th century, when this illustration was made. Alchemy was the pseudo-scien Stock Photo
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Science History Images / Alamy Stock Photo

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G15CA5

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33.3 MB (849.9 KB Compressed download)

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3460 x 3367 px | 29.3 x 28.5 cm | 11.5 x 11.2 inches | 300dpi

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Photo Researchers

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

The four elements, from an alchemical treatise. The classical Greek theory that all materials were made up of four elements persisted among philosophers and doctors as late as the 16th century, when this illustration was made. 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.