Golden Game: Alchemical Engravings of the Seventeenth Century [Englisch] [Taschenbuch]

But the *contents*. Good heavens. I was expecting page after page of illustrations with small-text captions. I bought it with an eye toward obscure imagery; I got it, but as an unexpected bonus there is a *wealth* of material explaining what it all means, and the sources, and the authors in whose works it appeared originally, and relevant snippets therefrom. Glorious! In addition to the images (and there are a great many, scrupulously reproduced and diverse, never fear) there is supplemental text on the history of the imagery and--among other things--why the 'hieroglyphics' of alchemy had such appeal to for alchemists and for the world of these illustrations' time. There are woodcuts, ink drawings, engravings and a few other media for the plates themselves. All look clear, or at least true to the original artist's shortcomings. Kings, queens, lions, baths, ovens, snakes, eggs, phoenixes and the like abound. That's not all, certainly: be assured that there are also rarer devices included. If I had it on my lap at the moment, I could blow the rest of my available space here with them. You will be satisfied with the breadth of the material, I'm certain.

It's *such* a good book to have. It stimulates both eyes and brain. Artists will draw inspiration from it, and the more scholarly folks will find it a gracious and sage read. I got it both ways. Lucky me.

The images themselves are presented chronologically, showing the original Latin, German, etc., prefaces with English translations immediately below. A short biography of both the author and circumstances surrounding the publication of their respective work is also listed faithfully, followed by the plates themselves in consecutive original order. At least a paragraph explaining the most obvious of the plate�s symbolism provided in the form of footnotes is given as well. There is no detail that escapes the author�s eye, and he specifically tells how they relate to Alchemical process, once again adding commentary from other learned minds where relevant. It is obvious that this was an intense labor on Mr. DeRola�s part, a product of many years spent honing an incredible grasp of the craft which he has so competently brought to us.

What is also obvious from the author�s elusive admission is that Alchemy is not solely a process for the transmutation of metals so much as it is a purification of one�s soul. This book is not an end all definitive manual for such things. Despite the author�s profound understanding of this philosophy, he does not eagerly impart unto us the deeper meaning of alchemy. He remains quite prudent, but not selfish; within the text he gives many clues about how to penetrate the surface of this transcendentalism. You�ll find many references such as �One would be wise to pay close attention to this part of the frame�, or �The learned man should look past the obvious theme of this symbol�. In essence, this work will provide the most comprehensive reference of Alchemical engravings available short of an expensive trip to Europe�s most hallowed libraries. On a deeper level, Mr. DeRola lends a wise hand that may guide the more intuitive mind past tired folklore and into the realm that the most proficient Hermetic intellects strove to inhabit. An indispensable work, invaluably resourceful and seamlessly crafted.

The softcover edition (Thames & Hudson) is printed in Slovenia on glossy paper. The hardcover editions (Thames & Hudson/George Braziller) are both printed in the German Democratic Republic on what appears to be acid-free cream-colored paper.

The reproductions look slightly better in the softcover edition printed in Slovenia. Perhaps because the glossy paper provides a higher contrast. Or it could be that it was just printed better. (I think the German Democratic Republic in 1988 could have been the former East Germany.)

The George Braziller hardcover just slightly edges out the Thames & Hudson hardcover. Although some people might say the quality of the reproductions look the same.

None of the reproductions (which are probably photolithography) can compare to the original metal plates. Just look at the detail in any 100 to 200 year old book and you will see what I'm talking about.

Be that as it may I highly recommend this book. This is an important compilation of Alchemical art. Normally you would have to purchase many books to acquire what is contained in this one. Buy it before its gone; before you have to purchase a beat-up used copy, or an expensive out-of-print hardcover.