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Transmutations

Presented by Chemical Heritage Foundation at Chemical Heritage Foundation

January 1-December 31, 2009

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In artistic depictions of alchemy, science and art blend to tell nuanced stories about the cultures that produced the two fields. The tone of European alchemical art from across the centuries can range from representational to humanizing, often using caricature, subtle satire, and theatrical gestures and poses.

Transmutations features depictions of chemistry and alchemy from the 17th through the 19th centuries. The paintings' subjects include detailed scenes of busy workshops where alchemists perform distillation, metallurgy, uroscopy, and tooth pulling. Portrayals of alchemists range from a figure of human folly to that of an honest laborer. Later paintings show a romanticized view of alchemy and illustrate how changes in artistic taste and convention also fueled misunderstandings about the practice of alchemy. Representations like those featured in the exhibit provide insight on the kind of work that alchemists did and on the ways that they have been revered, reviled, and remembered.

Admission is by appointment only; please call the number above to schedule your visit.