Treponema pallidum is a parasitic spirochete or spiral bacterium, primarily known for causing the STI syphilis . It's tricky to...

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) of obscure origins, a spotty history and massive impact. In the Renaissance its...

Feudalism is a structured system of land ownership and governance in which the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. It includes a...

Sublimation is a process of refinement, purification or extraction of specific elements. The aludel, a unique alchemical apparatus, is...

Andreas Libavius (c. 1550-1616) is one of the most influential figures of Renaissance alchemy, active in the Elizabethan era. His book...

Zaffre (zaffer) is a vibrant deep blue pigment developed by alchemists, major pigment creators, by c. 1550 AD. Characterized by brilliant...

Flowers of antimony are a purified form of antimony trioxide (Sb2O3). Created through sublimation, they have chemical and medical...

Ammonium carbonate [NH4]2CO3 is the main ingredient in Victorian smelling salts. Also called baker's ammonia, sal volatile , salt of...

Glass of antimony , or vitrum antimonii , gives warm yellow or red hues. As Sb2O3, its use in alchemy is largely medicinal, one of many...

Johann Georg Faust or Doctor Faustus is an alchemist, physician and magician, a cryptic figure of the German Renaissance. Perceived by...

The German Peasants' War (1524-5) is short, bloody and violent, and changes the course of history in Europe. Up to 400,000 peasants rise...

Galen of Pergamon (c. 129 - 216 AD) is well known in the history of medicine. His extensive writings and theories prevail for over 2000...

In practical alchemy, mercury II oxide (HgO) is often called the "Red Precipitate," with its compound Mercuric Amidochloride (Hg(NH2)Cl),...

Rotifers are fascinating microorganisms, crucial to aquatic ecosystems. Enthusiasts and researchers can raise rotifers at home for...

The Nine Years War, also known as the War of the League of Augsburg, is a key conflict in European history. Fierce battles erupt,...

Liver of Sulfur is a unique compound of alchemy, metallurgy and medicine. Also known as hepar sulfuris or sulfurated potash, Liver of...

Diana's Tree ( Arbor Diana or Dianae ) is one of the most intriguing creations of alchemy. Its delicate branches of crystallized silver...

Metal salts are compounds created from metals and acids. In history and today they enjoy uses in beauty, natural health, chemical...

Silverpoint is a drawing medium with distinct artistic potential. This delicate and precise medium has a rich history, unique properties,...

Sanguine is a rich, reddish-brown chalk beloved by Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo. Creating flesh-like tones in the human form...