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Indigo, deep blue dye from the Indigofera tinctoria plant, often associated with blue denim, is one of humanity's oldest dyes. The leaves of the tropical shrub contain indican, a brilliant blue pigment. A chemical compound, it can be transformed into brilliant indigo dye. Alchemy: Ancient Mordant Recipes for Fabric & Stones Natural Purple Dyes: Ancient & Medieval Natural Colors: How to Extract Plant Pigments Indigofera tinctoria is a flowering plant native to tropical and subtropical regions. It enjoys warm climates and is prized for its leaves, which contain indican, a chemical compound. Processed, indican converts to indigo dye. Extracting dye is based on traditional methods. In medieval times indigo has its own trade network. The indigo trade routes move the dye or fabric to China and Vietnam from India. Central Asia receives it from China. Uzbekistan in Central Asia also obtains it via Persia, from where it moves to Egypt. Overland trade routes of the 17th century include Agra to Lahore and Surat; Lahore to Kabul and Middle East and further; and Sind to Lahore. Earth of Chios: Ancient Alchemy, Cosmetics, & Medicine Secrets of Aqua Vitae in Alchemical Science Kohl: Eye Beauty Magic of Ancients 1. Harvesting the Indigo Plant Selecting leaves at the moment the indican concentration is optimal is crucial to ensuring a vibrant dye. To extract the best dye, the artisan should harvest the indigo plant when it's fully mature. This is late summer or early fall, when leaves are lush and green. Indigo is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions. Using garden scissors or shears, carefully cut the leaves from the stems. Do not denude the plants but it's wise to gather enough leaves for a decent amount of dye. 1-2 pounds (453 - 987 g) of fresh leaves is good. Antimony (Stibnite) Ancient Metal of Beauty & Trade Alexandria: Jewel of Ancient History Alchemy Processes & Related Astrology Signs 2. Soaking the Leaves: Once the leaves are harvested, they must be soaked in water to extract the dye. Fill a large container with warm water. Submerge the leaves, ensuring they are fully covered. Allow the mixture to steep for 24 hours. This helps to release the indican from the leaves into the water. Alchemists of Ancient Alexandria Hermes Trismegistus: Alchemy & the Occult Asphodel: Ancient Dye & Medicine Plants 3. Fermentation After soaking, the time comes to ferment the mixture. Strain the leaves out of the water using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. A greenish liquid like alien juice will appear. Keep this liquid in a covered container at room temperature. Over the next few days, natural fermentation will cause the mixture to develop a distinctive smell. Fermentation is crucial because it converts indican into indoxyl, a precursor to the indigo dye itself. Following fermentation, the mixture is exposed to oxygen, triggering oxidation of indoxyl into insoluble indigo particles. The stirring of the solution is a critical step in ensuring the even dispersion of the dye. 4. Behold the Precipitate After a few days of fermentation a blue precipitate forms at the bottom of the container. Insoluble indigo particles settle at the bottom of the solution. The liquid is then decanted, leaving behind a concentrated paste of indigo pigment. Women Scientists of the Ancient World Ruby, Rubies: Passion, Blood and Fire Numinous: Beholding the Divine 5. ... and Separate Carefully pour off the top liquid without disturbing the sediment. This might require diligence and/or a separatory funnel. Add fresh water to the sediment and stir gently to dissolve it. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for a while until the indigo settles again. Unlike synthetic dyes, natural indigo is biodegradable and eco-friendly. Kermes Insect & Ancient Red Pigments Woad, the People's Blue: Ancient Pigments Red Madder: Organic Ancient Colors 6. Drying the Indigo To store indigo dye, dry it for future use. Spread the paste on a tray or parchment paper in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Allow it to dry completely until it forms a powder. It can be ground into a finer powder as desired. Antimony (Kohl) Ancient Metal of Beauty & Trade Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg Mulberry Tree (Morus): Uses, Folklore & Myth Dyeing with Natural Indigo Prepare the Fabric: Wash fabric to remove any dirt. Soak it in a fixative (mordant) solution, such as an aqua mix of ferrous sulfate (iron(II) sulfate) or alum (potassium sulfate). This helps dye bond with fabric. Do not use vinegar or table salt NaCl, they don't work . The salts used must be metal salts. Other than metal salts tannins can be used, for example oak gall extracts. This can darken the material which may or may not work well, depending on the shade. In one ancient recipe, camel urine is recommended as a mordant. More about mordants here . Mordants - Essential Ancient Dye Techniques Alchemy: Ancient Mordant Recipes for Fabric & Stones Alkanet: Ancient Dye Magic & Medicine Dye Process: Submerge the fabric in the indigo dye bath. Allow it to soak until the fabric reaches the desired intensity of shade. The color will appear green when wet and will become blue as it oxidizes. Rinse in cold water and hang to dry. Repeat if necessary. Extracting dye or pigment from the indigo plant, Indigofera tinctoria, can be an enjoyable experience connecting with nature and ancient traditions. The process requires patience and care and if at first success is elusive, persistence pays off. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

The Catholic Inquisition is an institution in Christianity from the 12th to 19th century. Its purpose is to identify and eliminate heresy within the church but economic motives are a key factor. Here's an overview of significant Inquisitions in chronological order. Protestant Reformation of Renaissance Europe Rise & Fall of the Habsburg Dynasty Europe Thirty Years' War Europe: Five Major Battles Origins The Inquisition starts in response to perception of growing threats by heretical movements in medieval Europe. In the 12th century, the Catholic Church is on the defensive as groups like the Cathars and Waldensians preach alternate interpretations of Christianity. The Cathars are a significant religious faction in medieval Europe, known as a major heretical Christian community with extensive territories in southern France and northern Italy. Their beliefs and teachings are rooted in Gnosticism . In Gnostic belief, salvation comes from encountering divine revelation, awakening the divine spark within, and gaining knowledge for a return to spiritual origins in the transcendent realm. Gnosticism removes the church as middleman from the spiritual experience. Renaissance Apocalypse: End is Nigh Renaissance Wars: Venice vs. Ottoman Thirty Years' War: Conflict, Antagonists, and Impact on Society The Waldensians don't have distinct doctrines; instead, they emerge from an ascetic interpretation of the social Gospel. They emphasize poverty and stand against the Church's exploitation of the poor, and its economic pursuits in general. This prompts Pope Gregory IX in 1231 to formally establish the Inquisition system, initially as a mechanism for the church to investigate, prosecute and punish heretics, and to gain their property. The Church strives to restore control, citing religious integrity and uniformity. Medieval Inquisition (1231 - 1450) The inquisitorial courts up to the mid-15th century are collectively known as the Medieval Inquisition. The Medieval Inquisition is the precursor to later inquisitorial movements. Pope Gregory IX authorizes bishops and inquisitors to root out heresy within their jurisdictions. Great Persecution Rome vs. Christianity Religious Wars Catholics & Protestants France Best Mortar & Pestles for Artists, Chefs, Scientists Led by the Catholic Church, this period features intense scrutiny and persecution of individuals deemed deviant from accepted doctrines. It uses confessional systems and trials where accused individuals are faced with intimidation and harsh penalties. German Inquisition (1230s) The German Inquisition arises in response to the growing presence of heretical movements in the Holy Roman Empire, such as the Waldensians. From the early 13th century, inquisitors enforce church doctrine with trials and local collaborations of church and state. The German Inquisition emphasizes the importance of doctrinal purity and conformity. It contributes to the fragmentation of religious beliefs and practices across different German states. Carbuncle: Red Stone of Magic & Medicine 4 Infused Wines of Ancient Medicine Ardent Spirits Alchemy: the Fiery Elixirs of Life French Inquisition (1245) In France, the Inquisition gains prominence after the Albigensian Crusade (1209-1229) against the Cathars. The French Inquisition suppresses heretical ideas but also political dissent, and becomes infamous for harsh punishments and execution of heretics. The main center of the medieval inquisition is the Languedoc in the south of France. The first inquisitors are appointed there in 1233. Due to resistance from local communities in the early years, most sentences concern dead heretics, whose bodies are exhumed and burned. Between 1245 - 1246, Inquisitor Bernard de Caux investigates 39 villages in the regions of Lauragais and Lavaur. All 5,471 adult residents are interrogated, with 207 identified as heretics. None receive a death sentence, 23 are imprisoned, and 184 are assigned penance. 12 Renaissance Medicines & Treatments Seven Precious Stones of the Ancient World Red & White Tartar: Wine Salts of Alchemy Papal Inquisition in Italy (1255) The Papal Inquisition follows soon after, focusing primarily on northern Italy, where heretical groups such as the Cathars are prevalent. The Inquisition in Italy is characterized by its use of papal authority to conduct trials. The Italian Inquisition is particularly active in regions such as Venice and Florence. It further solidified the Church's authority and fostered a climate of fear and suspicion among the populace. In 1276, about 170 Cathars are captured in Sirmione, then imprisoned in Verona. There, after a two-year trial, on February 13 from 1278, more than a hundred are burned. Heretic burnings are often a public spectacle. Great Persecution Rome vs. Christianity Expulsion of Intellectuals Alexandria 145 BCE Glass & Arts of Ancient Glass Making In Orvieto, at the end of 1268/1269, 85 heretics are sentenced, none executed. In 18 cases the sentence concerns people already dead, in another strategic property grab by the Catholic Church. In Tuscany, inquisitor Ruggiero burns at least 11 people c. 1244 - 1245. Excluding executions of the heretics at Sirmione in 1278, 36 Inquisition executions appear in the March of Treviso 1260 - 1308. Ten people are executed in Bologna 1291 - 1310. In Piedmont, 22 heretics (mainly Waldensians) are burned 1312–1395, out of 213 convicted. Calcination Process: Alchemy at High Heat Sublime Vision of Hermes Trismegistus Active Imagination: Creative Therapy 22 Waldensians are burned in Cuneo c.1440, and another five in the Marquisate of Saluzzo in 1510. There are also records of many executions of people suspected of witchcraft in northern Italy in the 15th and early 16th centuries. Spanish Inquisition (1478) The Spanish Inquisition marks a more extreme notorious phase of the Inquisition's history. Established by monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella, it targets converted Jews (Conversos) suspected of practicing Judaism in secret, as well as other non-Christians. All Jews who had not converted were expelled from Spain in 1492, and all Muslims ordered to convert in different stages starting in 1501. Those who convert or simply remained after the edict become legally Catholics, and thus subject to the Inquisition. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Ancient Uses & Medicine House of Wisdom: Medieval Scholarship in Baghdad Spirit of Wine of the Wise: Alchemy Recipe The Inquisition in Spain is infamous for its brutal tactics, including torturing suspects to elicit confessions. It results in thousands of executions, alongside widespread fear and persecution. Portuguese Inquisition (1536) Similar to its Spanish counterpart, the Portuguese Inquisition is established to enforce Catholic orthodoxy, seeking to expose heresy among Jews, Muslims, and Protestants. Extensive trials and executions reflect broader anxieties within the Catholic Church. The Anxious Victorian - Mental Health Lindwyrm, Mare & Pig Demons: German Myth Art of Egg Tempera: Paint Like the Old Masters The Portuguese counterpart mirrors the Spanish Inquisition in its methods of persecution and control. Its reach extends to Portuguese colonies, where it seeks to impose religious uniformity and eliminate divergent beliefs. Roman or Italian Inquisition (1542) The Roman Inquisition, formally known as the Suprema Congregatio Sanctae Romanae et Universalis Inquisitionis is a series of biased courts established by the Holy See of the Catholic Church in the latter part of the 16th century. Roman Inquisition: Power, Prayer & Politics Prague: Bohemians of the Renaissance Babylonian Astrology: Destiny in the Stars Its purpose is to try individuals accused of various offenses under Catholic law and doctrine, pertaining to Catholic religious practices or other religious or secular beliefs. Pope Paul III founds the movement as part of the broader Catholic Inquisition, alongside the Spanish and Portuguese Inquisitions, following the Medieval Inquisition era. New World Inquisitions (16th-17th centuries) As Spanish and Portuguese empires expand in the New World, so does the Inquisition. It addresses perceived heresy among indigenous populations, colonial settlers and enslaved people. The Inquisition extends to the Americas, forcing Catholic orthodoxy on newly acquired territories. Anima Mundi: Soul of the World Panacea: Goddess of Universal Health Democritus: Laughing Philosopher Ahead of His Time As European powers venture into the New World, the inquisitorial practices accompany them. Indigenous populations face the wrath of the Catholic Church's inquisitions, leading to cultural erasure and the imposition of new religious norms. Other Inquisitions Inquisitions are also carried such regions as the Balkans, Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic (Bohemia). Researchers cite 558 court cases finished with conviction in Poland from the 15th to 18th centuries. Effects of the Renaissance & Reformation The Renaissance and Reformation introduce new ideas, humanism, and increased scrutiny of religious institutions. The Inquisition faces an uphill battle as figures like Martin Luther and reformers criticize church practices and doctrine, leading to widespread calls for reform. Kerotakis: Ancient Alchemical Equipment Valerian: Natural Health & Essential Oils Glauber: Preparation of a Golden Spirit of Wine The Protestant Reformation incites the Inquisition to double down on efforts to suppress dissent and maintain church authority. This reactionary response from the Catholic Church culminates in the Counter-Reformation. At this time, the Inquisition adapts methods and rationales, focusing not just on heresy but also the political problems of religious dissent. It provokes an atmosphere of fear and suspicion, as individuals can be accused of heresy based on flimsy evidence or political motivations. Knights Templar Crusades & Medieval France Fermentation: Yeast & the Active Microworld Sophie Brahe Writer, Alchemist & Astronomer Overall the intellectual and religious upheavals of the Renaissance era challenge the authority of the Church and encourage greater religious tolerance and diversity. 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The home gym, antiseptic, bicycles and Bunsen burners all emerge in the 19th century . European engineers, scientists, physicians and inventors are at the top of their game in the 1800's with new standards of hygiene, mental health and physical fitness. Jump to: Home Gym Antiseptic Bunsen Burners Bicycles In the Victorian era cycles of industrial progress create reactions such as environmentalism , return to nature and natural health. Here are a few breakthrough inventions and innovations of the 19th century we still love today. 1. The World’s First Home Gym A health and fitness craze sweeps Europe at the end of the 19th century. Designed by Swedish physician and orthopedist Dr. Gustav Zander, the home gym comes to the public eye in an array of shapes and sizes, along with a handbook of exercises. Steam & Style - Agrippina of the Rhine Pioneering German Women - Bertha Benz Easter Bunny, Prussian Blue & Penguins Dr. Zander is one of the originators of mechanotherapy , a therapeutic method of exercise, defined in 1890 as “the employment of mechanical means for the cure of disease”. He designs a series of mechanical contraptions designed to shape up the Victorian body, for men, women and kids. It's not long before competitors join the home exercise craze. Imitations and variations appear throughout Europe. Zander remains in the public eye as the handbook of exercises he publishes is adopted by the public as a widespread guide for physical fitness. 2. Antiseptic Pioneering German Women - Anita Augspurg Seven Deadly Diseases of the Renaissance The Strange Case of Rudolf Diesel The use of antiseptic in hospitals isn't widespread until Joseph Lister, a British surgeon, publishes his ground-breaking paper Antiseptic Principle of the Practice of Surgery in 1867. Until then, hospitals are houses of horror, where people go to die. Before antiseptic, post-surgical treatment includes neither cleanliness nor draining and treatment of the wound. Surgeons wear unwashed aprons caked with blood and tissue. A few voices pre-empt the work of Joseph Lister, like those of Florence Nightingale and Hippocrates. There are several classes of antiseptics including iodine, alcohols, phenols (introduced by Lister) and peroxides. With the introduction of antiseptic in hospitals, the post-surgery recovery rate soars. 3. The Bunsen Burner No science laboratory is complete without a Bunsen burner. Named after German inventor and chemist Robert Bunsen, it's a gas burner with a single open gas flame. Uses include heating, sterilization, and combustion. The Mystic Victorian - Fortune Telling Casting the Bones - Astragalomancy Arcanum Joviale: Alchemy of Sudorific Sweat Different flame types of Bunsen burner  depending on air flow through the valve. air valve closed air valve nearly fully closed air valve semi-opened air valve maximally opened In 1852, the University of Heidelberg hires Bunsen with the promise of a new laboratory building. Heidelberg is starting to install coal-gas street lights. The University lays gas lines to the new laboratory. Bunsen wants to improve the lab burner lamps and adapt them to coal-gas fuel. In 1854, collaboration with the University mechanic produces the first burners and the next year, fifty are created for use by Bunsen's students. The flame burns brightly and users can adjust the temperature; and so the Bunsen burner is now a classic. 4. The World's First Bicycle The bicycle is one of the most beloved forms of self-transportation. The nineteenth century hosted a transportation and bicycle revolution. Bicycles go from wobbly novelties to a means of personal empowerment. Great 19th Century German Woman Artists Science of Onion Tears: Demystifying Acids Galls & Gall Nuts: Black Ink, Dye, Medicine The Draisienne (dandy horse) or Laufmaschine (running machine), is introduced by German inventor Baron Karl von Drais. Considered the first bicycle although it has no pedals, it makes a name for von Drais as father of the bicycle . It's unveiled in Mannheim, Germany in 1817 and Paris, France in 1818. The rider sits astride a wooden frame supported by two wheels, and pushes the vehicle with feet while steering the front wheel. Credit for the treadle bicycle, the first mechanically propelled, two-wheeled vehicle may go to Kirkpatrick MacMillan, a Scottish blacksmith, in 1839. It's often challenged. He's more notorious for the first recorded instance of a cycling traffic offense, when he knocks over a little girl with his bike, and is fined five shillings. 5 Waters of Ancient Alchemy: Aqua Caustic Vinegar Cures of Physician Dioscorides Women Scientists of the Ancient World After treadle bikes, in the latter half of the 19th century come eye-catching high-wheelers or big wheel bikes. In Britain the high wheeler is called Penny Farthing due to size of the wheels in perspective. Able to reach speeds up to 22 miles (35 km) the bike also gives a smooth ride. Replacing the high wheeler in the 1880's is the "safety bicycle" first successfully launched in 1885. It has a steerable front wheel, equally sized wheels and a chain drive to the rear wheel. Widely imitated, the safety bicycle completely replaces the high-wheeler in North America and Western Europe by 1890, and becomes the prototype for today's modern bikes. The bicycle gives people more freedom than ever before and inspires trends. Lines of fashion come out for women, such as bloomer-style or split skirts, and safety devices like back wheel webbing to prevent voluminous clothing from catching. Women are independently mobile. Victorian Trends: Sailor Suits to Taxidermy Herbology & Lore - Chamomile Castle Frankenstein - Legend & Lore Bicycles are fast, convenient and easy to ride. On a straight road in the Victorian era a bicycle could travel approximately 15 mph (24 km/h), compared to the average trotting speed of a horse at 8 mph (12.8 km/h) and a modern motor vehicle at 12 mph (19 km/h). With widespread appeal, bicycles cross barriers of class and gender. Poor or rich, male or female, young or old, people all have access to bicycles, and dramatic changes happen as those from all walks of life enjoy freedom, independence and adventure. 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Some graphics may be disturbing. Disease in the European Renaissance takes a grave toll. Ancient killers include smallpox, malaria, leprosy, the Black Plague, measles, tuberculosis and syphilis. Survivors are often disfigured for life. Roman Inquisition: Power, Prayer & Politics Renaissance Apocalypse: End is Nigh Isabella Cortese: Renaissance Writer, Alchemist, Entrepreneur The Renaissance (c. 1350 - 1700 depending on region) is celebrated for resurgence of art, culture and intellectual pursuits. Population expansion, travel and trade, warfare and festivities contribute to the atmosphere of growth and interaction. Many elements are conducive to spread of disease. In cities, the less financially fortunate are crammed into shoddy housing and drink from the same wells of infected water. Warfare brings famine and pestilence, and disease attacks everyone, regardless of wealth or gender. Panacea: Goddess of Universal Health Alchemy, Demons & the Roman Inquisition Catholic Inquisitions: Chronology & Overview 1. Malaria Malaria has roots in ancient civilizations. References to its symptoms appear in texts as far back as 400 BCE in Greece. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, thriving in damp, warm climates. Causes Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. An increase in Renaissance agriculture creates favorable breeding grounds for mosquitoes, especially in marshy, stagnant areas. Malaria: Roman Fever & Renaissance Plague Sweet Wormwood: Malaria Miracle Cure Natural Health: Paracelsus & Hermetic Principles Symptoms Symptoms typically appear 10 to 15 days after the bite and include fever, chills, sweating, fatigue, and headaches. As the disease progresses, it can lead to severe complications, including anemia and respiratory ailments. Malaria is prevalent in Renaissance Europe, particularly in marshy areas. Although precise death statistics are difficult to ascertain, it is believed malaria causes thousands of deaths per year in ancient times, contributing to diminished populations and drop in agricultural labor. Protestant Reformation of Renaissance Europe Thirty Years' War Europe: Five Major Battles Rabbit Fever Plague & Warfare: Hittites The Romans believe the disease comes from swamp vapors. Emperor Nero drains swamps around Rome to combat the sickness. During the Renaissance, treatments are rudimentary at best. Quinine, derived from the bark of the cinchona tree, is used in later centuries. Effective management of malaria is largely absent. In Florence, Duke Cosimo I of the Medici , founder of the Uffizi, loses both his heirs to malaria, and much of his immediate family to illness and plague. Reclusiveness and depression mark his later years. 2. Leprosy Leprosy, or Hansen’s disease, dates back thousands of years and has been documented in ancient texts from India, Greece, and Egypt. It’s caused by a bacterium and spreads through prolonged contact with an infected person. Rise & Fall of the Habsburg Dynasty Europe Thirty Years' War: Conflict, Antagonists, and Impact on Society Renaissance Wars: Venice vs. Ottoman Causes Leprosy, or Hansen's disease, is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae . Its exact transmission remains somewhat unclear, though it is believed to spread through respiratory droplets and prolonged close contact. Symptoms Leprosy primarily affects the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes, leading to disfiguring skin lesions, numbness in affected areas, and muscle weakness. Social stigma often results in isolation from communities, leading to psychological stress and depression. Though leprosy has begun to decline in prominence by the Renaissance, it still instills fear and stigma. Institutionalized leprosy hospitals, known as leprosaria , house thousands of afflicted individuals. In itself leprosy is not fatal, but creates a fertile environment for infection. Disease Demons & Doctors: Ancient Mesopotamia Valerian: Natural Health & Essential Oils The Anxious Victorian - Mental Health Various ‘cures’ exist, often involving herbal remedies, purging or bloodletting. Effective treatment is not found until the 20th century. Leprosy elicits fear and stigma during the Renaissance due to its disfiguring effects on the skin, nerves, and respiratory tract. Leprosy is a lifelong sentence of social ostracism and isolation of those afflicted. Despite advancements in understanding the disease, in the Renaissance leprosy continues to exact a heavy toll. Leper colonies exist until 1957, when the last one, on Crete, is closed. 3. The Bubonic Plague (Black Death) Originating in Central Asia, the Black Death reaches Europe via trade routes in the mid-14th century. It's one of the greatest catastrophes of the Middle Ages. Plague affects many countries and no one knows how to deal with it. Hundred Years’ War: Battles & Overview Eirenaeus Philalethes: Alchemy & Death in Renaissance London Women Scientists of the Ancient World Causes Bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis , is transmitted through fleas infesting rats. Rapid urbanization and trade during the Renaissance facilitate the spread of this disease and cause devastating and recurring epidemics. Symptoms Symptoms include sudden fever, chills, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes (buboes). The disease can escalate to septicemic or pneumonic forms, which are often fatal. Death is on the doorstep and fear is contagious. The consequences of the Black Plague are devastating. An estimated 25 million people or approximately one-third of Europe’s population die within a few years. The societal impact reshapes economies as consumers, suppliers and laborers deal with sickness and death. Theriac: Miracle Snake Venom Potion Mother of Vinegar & Microbial Life in a Bottle Poison Pigments of Painters: Renaissance Treatments during the Renaissance include bloodletting, medicinal herbs, and various superstitions. Quarantines are instituted, beginning 1377 in Croatia. Swift progression and high mortality rates makes the plague one of the most dreaded diseases of the Renaissance. Doctors notice the survival rate increases after the disease advances enough to swell the buboes until they burst. They begin draining the pus-filled growths and are heartened to see an improvement in recovery. 4. Measles Measles is a viral infection in existence for centuries. It goes back to ancient Rome, where outbreaks are common. Causes Measles is caused by the measles viru s morbillivirus , which spreads through respiratory droplets in the air and on surfaces. Its highly contagious nature makes it a formidable foe during the Renaissance when large gatherings are the norm. Mad Hatter's Disease: Mercury Madness Rasayana: Alchemy & Health of India Ancient Egypt Remedies: Ebers Papyrus Symptoms Symptoms typically begin with high fever, cough, runny nose, and inflamed eyes. A distinctive red, blotchy rash appears three to five days after initial symptoms. Complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis can occur, especially in malnourished patients. Measles poses a serious threat, especially to children, leading to complications and deaths. The Renaissance has frequent epidemics, with mortality rates among infected people reaching as high as 30% in severe cases. Koplik's spots (also Koplik's sign) appear in the mouth two to three days before the measles rash appears. At first they are small pimple-like lesions described as resembling grains of salt against a red background (above). Below is the condition on first day of the measles rash. Renaissance medicine is ill-equipped to offer effective treatments for measles, focusing largely on supportive care, isolation, and symptoms management. Severe complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis, contribute to the high death toll during this era. 5. Tuberculosis Tuberculosis (TB) evidence is found in Egyptian mummies. This disease affects the lungs, where the TB bacterium comes to live, as well as brain, spine and kidneys. Not everyone with the tuberculosis germ gets sick. Causes: Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis , which is transmitted through the air by coughing or sneezing. Crowded living conditions in urban areas during the Renaissance contribute to the spread of TB. Knights Templar Crusades & Medieval France Guelphs & Ghibellines: Blood of the Renaissance The Four Medici Popes: Controversial Connections Symptoms Symptoms include a persistent cough (lasting three weeks or longer), coughing blood, chest pain, weight loss, fatigue, fever, and night sweats. The disease often affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body, leading to complications. TB is rampant in crowded urban centers during the Renaissance. Infected people don't transmit tuberculosis until symptoms show. It's estimated to cause deaths of about 25% of those infected in the middle ages. The bacterium is discovered by Robert Koch in 1882. Paracelsus: Renegade Renaissance Physician Guelphs & Ghibellines: Blood of the Renaissance Religious Wars Catholics & Protestants France Treatments are limited through history. Sanatoriums begin to appear in the 19th century. Prior to that, rest, fresh air, and a healthy diet are prescribed, but effective treatments are not developed until the mid-20th century. 6. Smallpox Smallpox can trace its origins back to ancient Egypt and India, with evidence of its existence over 3,000 years ago. It spread through direct contact and was highly contagious, often leaving survivors scarred for life. Arsenic: Murderous Metal & Miracle Cure Death Cap Mushrooms: Deadly Poison Parabalani: Medics & Murderous Mobs Causes Smallpox is an infectious disease caused by the variola virus. The virus spreads rapidly in crowded conditions and through close contact, which is common in Renaissance cities as populations increase dramatically. Symptoms Initial symptoms include fever and malaise, followed by the appearance of a pustular rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. The pustules eventually crust over and leave permanent scars. During the Renaissance, smallpox decimates populations, particularly affecting children and young adults. It is estimated to have killed nearly 400,000 Europeans annually, leading to profound societal impacts, including a decreased labor force and economic strain. This dreaded illness often causes scarring and blindness in survivors. The Renaissance gives rise to early forms of inoculation, with practices emerging in places like China and Turkey. In the late 18th century Edward Jenner develops the first successful smallpox vaccine. 7. Syphilis Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacterium. In his Serpentine Malady (1539) Spanish physician Ruy Díaz de Isla estimates over a million people infected in Europe, or one in seven-eight. In Victorian times, one in five people have syphilis. During the Renaissance syphilis is very severe. According to historian Jared Diamond, "[W]hen syphilis was first definitely recorded in Europe in 1495, its pustules often covered the body from the head to the knees, caused flesh to fall from people's faces, and led to death within a few months." Causes Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and primarily spread through sexual contact. The increase in urban population and mobility during the Renaissance contributes to the spread of this sexually transmitted infection. Isaac Newton: Alchemy & the Occult Victorian Health: Sea Water Hydrotherapy Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Symptoms Syphilis progresses through several stages. Primary syphilis presents as a painless sore (chancre). Secondary syphilis includes a rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Latent syphilis may remain asymptomatic before potentially progressing to tertiary syphilis. At this point it causes serious damage to organs like the heart and brain. Syphilis becomes an epidemic in Renaissance Europe, with widespread social stigma attached. Though specific death tolls are hard to pinpoint, estimates suggest thousands suffer severe health consequences. Syphilis infection also strains the immune system, encouraging other potentially fatal diseases. Spagyria: Botanical Science of Alchemy Chicken Soup: Chickens in German Folklore 4 Infused Wines of Ancient Medicine Cases increase exponentially during the Renaissance. Remedies for syphilis are rudimentary at best, leading to significant suffering and mortality. Early "cures" include mercury baths, harmful and often deadly. Discovery of penicillin in 1928 leads to effective treatment. Other diseases with an impact on the Renaissance include cholera, scarlet fever (first documented 1533 but considered older), influenza (after 1580), various cancers, fevers and "wasting diseases". Germs are discovered in the 19th century, followed by antiseptic. 19th Century: Home Gym, Bicycles, Antiseptic Lora Ley Adventures - Feast of Fools Four Humors & Medical Stagnation When European hospitals begin to use antiseptic in the late 19th century, staff are thrilled to discover the survival rates after surgery increase dramatically. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Four Medici Popes shape history during their reigns: Pope Leo X, Pope Clement VII, Pope Pius IV, and Pope Leo XI. Centered in Florence, Italy, the Medici family produces powerful political figures, bankers and merchants. The Reformation threatens to end all that. Titans of the Renaissance: Powerful Italian Families Cosimo de' Medici & the Italian Renaissance Medici & Alchemy: Italian Renaissance Pope Leo X (1475 - 1521) Born Giovanni di Lorenzo de' Medici, Pope Leo X is the second son of Lorenzo the Magnificent. His papacy (1513 - 1521) is characterized by ambition, extravagance, and cultural flowering. He is perhaps best known for commissioning the construction of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. This endeavor becomes an enduring symbol of the Catholic Church’s splendor. Highlights Patron of the Arts: Like the rest of the Medici Family, Leo X supports the arts. He commissions artists like Raphael and Michelangelo to the Vatican. During the 1520s, the Medici face a revolt. As Michelangelo actively supports a new republic in Florence, he's forced into hiding for two months under the floor of a chapel. Financial Ventures: Leo X sells indulgences, or permission to get into heaven/forgive sins for a cash donation. The Catholic Church's financial dependence on indulgences is so blatant and corrupt it ultimately starts Martin Luther's Reformation. Combating Heresy: Leo X perpetuates the Inquisition to combat growing dissent within the Church, particularly aimed at reformers challenging its authority. Guelphs & Ghibellines: Blood of the Renaissance Knights Templar Crusades & Medieval France Famous Women of Renaissance Alchemy His connection to the Medici family allows Leo X to leverage his familial ties to consolidate power, blending the influences of politics with papal authority. He exemplifies the extravagant and luxurious lifestyle often associated with the Medici. His patronage of arts and literature makes the Vatican a center of cultural flourishing during the Renaissance. However, his lavish spending also contributes to the financial burdens faced by the Papal States. Pope Clement VII (1478 - 1534) Clement VII, born Giulio di Giuliano de' Medici, becomes Pope in 1523. His reign is overshadowed by political turmoil and religious strife, especially during the Protestant Reformation, which gains significant traction during his papacy. Thirty Years' War: Conflict, Antagonists, and Impact on Society Catholic Inquisitions: Chronology & Overview Rise & Fall of the Habsburg Dynasty Europe Highlights: Sack of Rome (1527): Perhaps one of the defining events of his papacy, the Sack of Rome by the troops of Charles V is both a personal and political disaster. It exposes the vulnerability of the Papacy in the face of emerging nation-states. The Medici Restoration: Clement VII works on restoring Medici power in Florence by skillfully navigating alliances and leveraging his position as Pope. Artistic Patronage: He commissions Michelangelo for various works, including the decoration of the Sistine Chapel and the Medici Chapel, influencing Renaissance art significantly. Clement’s navigation of these turbulent waters show the Medici knack for political maneuvers, but also exposes their limitations in times of societal upheaval. His decisions during the Sack of Rome tarnish the Medici name with ensuing tragedy and chaos. Clement VII's pontificate promotes political intrigue, including alliances with European powers to protect the Papal States. Catherine de' Medici & the Occult Malaria: Roman Fever & Renaissance Plague Gnosticism: Five Essential Gnostic Principles Pope Pius IV (1499 - 1565) Pope Pius IV is born Giovanni Angelo de' Medici. Elected Pope in 1559, he tries to repair the Church's image after the controversies of the previous decades. Highlights: Council of Trent: Pius IV presides over the final sessions of the Council, a crucial ecumenical council created to address the reforms. He defines Catholic doctrine in response to Protestantism. Strengthening Papal Authority: He works to restore the influence of the papacy, realigning relationships with powerful families across Europe, including the Habsburgs . Cultural Contributions: Pius IV continues the Medici tradition of patronage by promoting the arts and commissioning works from leading artists of the time while also beautifying the Vatican. Pius IV represents a more stabilizing and reform-minded phase for the Church, employing diplomacy and culture to restore its place in European affairs. He opts for a prudent approach to the papacy. His involvement in the Council of Trent emphasizes doctrinal purity and addresses corruption within the Church. Pius IV's diplomacy helps reconcile Papal States with European monarchs, strengthening the Church's position. Roman Inquisition: Power, Prayer & Politics Lora Ley Adventures - Feast of Fools Caterina Sforza: Renaissance Alchemy Pope Leo XI (1535 - 1605) Pope Leo XI, born Alessandro de' Medici, is often regarded as a transitional figure within the Medici popes. His papacy lasted only 27 days in 1605, making it one of the shortest in history. Highlights: Focus on Internal Church Issues: Although his papacy is brief, Leo XI emphasizes fiscal responsibility within the Church, reflecting his roots in finance and the banking acumen of the Medici family. Careful Alliance-Building: He intends to mend the rift within the Church and strengthen Catholic unity, a reflection of Medici diplomacy, though he unfortunately doesn't have time to implement significant changes. Despite his short tenure, Leo XI’s administration is indicative of the Medici Family’s strategic knowledge of power intricacies and skillful navigation of political and religious challenges through the years. Religious Wars Catholics & Protestants France Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Pope vs Alchemy 1317 AD: Falsification The Inquisition , a controversial aspect of the Medici popes' legacies, emphasizes efforts to enforce religious orthodoxy and combat heresy. While the Inquisition was a dark chapter in Church history, it also reflected the Medici popes' commitment to maintaining doctrinal integrity and responding to challenges to Catholic authority. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Experimenting with rust. Mmm rust. Amazing how many colors it gives out. I'm trying for an earthy gold and a couple other tones. On the left is Pyrex coffee pot with nails, which were soaking in a solution for a few days. I simmered them down to a dark crust. Art of Egg Tempera: Paint Like the Old Masters Chemistry of Rust: Minerals & Pigment Colors Black Pigments of Ancient Artisans On the right - ta da! Powder pigment, still unrefined, needs more grinding, but showing a bit of the warm gold. It has a velvety feel and breaks down into a lighter gold when rubbed between thumb and finger. From the left pic it went through hydration and drying again, making a reddish phase which lightened on grinding. This is test batch No. 3 (officially). No. 2 was lost in a tragic container accident. The first one I roasted, and made a rich dark tone I'm still mulling over. Aiming for a few different paint pigments: earth gold, copper, red and a dusky purple. I'm on Reddit: Lady_Alchemista (u/Lady_Alchemista) - Reddit Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Arcanum Duplicatum is known by many names: sulphate of potash, arcanite, potash of sulfur, potassium sulfate. An inorganic compound, it manifests as a white water-soluble solid prized by alchemists. Arcanum dupilcatum (K2SO4) hits the alchemical shelves c. 14th century. Ardent Spirits Alchemy: the Fiery Elixirs of Life Alchemical Salt: Essential Salts of Alchemy Fulminating Gold: Blowing It Up in Alchemy It's called arcanuni  or sal duplicatum (double secret) as it's composed of an acid salt and alkaline salt. Other names include vitriolic tartar, Glaser's salt or sal polychrestum Glaseri . The latter are for chemist Christopher Glaser, who prepares and purveys arcanum duplicatum . Born in Basel, Glaser becomes apothecary to Louis XIV and Duke of Orléans in Paris, France of the 17th century. He's implicated in a poisoning scheme of 1676. His death date is unclear (1670 - 1678). He may have left the earthly realm by then. If not, he does soon after. Oil of Philosophers: Alchemy Health & Beauty Edward Kelley: Alchemy & the Angels Acetic Acid: Vinegar 🜊 in Ancient Alchemy Also known as panacea duplicata, this compound gets its ravenous power from production of aqua fortis (nitric acid, HNO3) from niter (potassium nitrate, KNO3, saltpeter) and oil of vitriol (sulfuric acid, H2SO4). It forms as residue of production processes of these compounds. The residual salts are dissolved in hot water, filtered, then evaporated to form a cuticle or membrane. Finally, the solution is left to crystallize. The salts are then used as a diuretic and sudorific (to induce sweating). In pyrotechnics, potassium sulfate produces a purple flame. Divine Water: Sulfuric Acid in Alchemy Arcanum Joviale: Alchemy of Sudorific Sweat Aqua Regia: The Green Lyon of Alchemy Purple flame gives rise to the alchemical term "Angel of Violet Light". Potassium sulfate is studied by such luminaries as Johann Glauber and Robert Boyle. Already known since the 14th century, it receives its names arcanuni or sal duplicatum in the 17th century. The recipe for sal duplicatum is purchased by Charles Frederick, Duke of Holstein-Gottorp. Schroder, the duke's physician, expounds on the wonders of its great uses in hypochondriacal cases, continued and intermitting fevers, stone, scurvy, and more. Prima Materia: Elements of Alchemy Agrippina & Son: Poisonous Plots of Rome Fire Men & Lights Errant: German Lore It's hard to know if the doctor's rave reviews are true, or exaggerated to sell the products. Physician testimonials to purported miracle remedies have a bottom line in mind - money, status, or even fear of punishment by the patron who recommends it. But sure, maybe it's true. Natural resources of potassium sulfate are minerals abundant in the Stassfurt salt, a potash salt of Germany. The minerals are cocrystallizations of potassium sulfate and sulfates of magnesium, calcium, and sodium. Aluminum(III) Oxide: Secrets of Precious Gemstones Alchemy: How to Make Emerald from Quartz Alchemy and the Art of Gold-Making Relevant minerals include: Kainite, KMg(SO4)·Cl·3H2O Schönite (now known as picromerite), K2SO4·MgSO4·6H2O Leonite, K2SO4·MgSO4·4H2O Langbeinite, K2Mg2(SO4)3 Aphthitalite (previously known as glaserite), K3Na(SO4)2 Polyhalite, K2SO4·MgSO4·2CaSO4·2H2O The potassium sulfate can be separated from some minerals, such as kainite, as the corresponding salt is less soluble in water. Today potassium sulfate is created by the reaction of sulfuric acid with potassium chloride. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

The Guelphs and Ghibellines are feuding factions during the Italian Renaissance. Warfare and bloodshed between the two throw regions of Italy into terror and turmoil in the enlightened times of science and exploration. Knights Templar Crusades & Medieval France Famous Women of Renaissance Alchemy Thirty Years' War: Conflict, Antagonists, and Impact on Society The roots of rivalry go back to the Investiture Controversy, a pivotal moment in European history beginning 1075. This conflict emerged from the clash between the Papacy and the Holy Roman Empire over the right to appoint bishops and other church officials. The Investiture Controversy or Investiture Contest is a conflict between Church and state in medieval Europe over the ability to choose and install bishops (investiture), abbots of monasteries and even the Pope himself. Naples Renaissance: Holy Alchemy Writing in Letters of Gold: Ancient Alchemy Women of the Wild Hunt: Holle, Diana, Frigg The Investiture Controversy escalates tensions between the secular and ecclesiastical authorities, starting a prolonged struggle for supremacy. The Guelphs support the Papacy, advocating for independence of the Church from imperial control. The Ghibellines align themselves with the Holy Roman Empire, seeking to uphold imperial authority over the Church and establish secular dominance. Rivalry between Guelphs and Ghibellines escalates over centuries, leading to war, political turmoil and shifting alliances. Catholic Inquisitions: Chronology & Overview Rise & Fall of the Habsburg Dynasty Europe Catherine de' Medici & the Occult Cities and regions across the Italian peninsula turn into battlegrounds for these competing faction. Allegiances constantly shift and betrayals are commonplace. Ultimately, the conflict between Guelphs and Ghibellines come to symbolize the broader struggle for power in Italy. The division between Guelphs and Ghibellines is significant in cities such as Florence. The two factions incite frequent power struggles across various northern Italian cities. In Florence and other locations, the Guelphs typically consist of merchants and burghers. Sweet Wormwood: Malaria Miracle Cure Numinous: Beholding the Divine Protestant Reformation of Renaissance Europe The Ghibellines are predominantly noblemen. To distinguish themselves, faction members adopt unique practices like wearing a feather on a specific side of their hats or cutting fruit in a particular manner based on their allegiance. Political alignments are driven by local or regional political considerations. Party allegiances vary from one guild to another within cities, and from one rione (neighborhood) to another. A city high in internal conflict easily switches parties. Ge Hong: Teachings Alchemy Medicine Malaria: Roman Fever & Renaissance Plague Gnosticism: Five Essential Gnostic Principles In the early 13th century, Philip of Swabia, a Hohenstaufen, and Otto of Brunswick, from the Welf dynasty, vie for the position of emperor. Philip is backed by Ghibellines due to lineage as Frederick I's son, and Otto is supported by the Guelphs. Despite the Guelphs' initial success in having Otto crowned as Emperor, Otto later clashes with the Papacy. This leads to his excommunication and subsequent replacement by Philip's successor, Emperor Frederick II (r. 1220 - 1250 AD). Lapis Lazuli: Creating Ultramarine Cosimo de' Medici & the Italian Renaissance George Ripley: Alchemist of Augustine Frederick II, adversary of both Otto and the papacy, sees the Guelphs align more closely with the papacy during his rule. The Ghibellines remain loyal to the Empire and Frederick in particular. Pope Gregory IX excommunicates Frederick II in 1227 for his failure to join the Crusade, and later again during the Sixth Crusade (1228-29) while he's on the Crusade. This rift deepens, leading to hostilities between his regent in Italy and the Pope. Verdigris: Volatile Blue Green Pigment The Great Library of Alexandria Mandalas: Psychology & Art Therapy Papal Inquisition In 1233, Pope Gregory IX establishes the Papal Inquisition. The institution is created to standardize the process of prosecuting individuals accused of heresy within the Catholic Church. This marks a crucial development in the history of religious governance and the enforcement of orthodoxy. The Papal Inquisition investigates, judges, and punishes those deemed to be deviating from accepted beliefs and teachings of the Church. Theriac: Miracle Snake Venom Potion Alchemists of Ancient Alexandria Egyptian Alchemy - Power of Eternity The Papal Inquisition a defense against the perceived threat of heresy, which is viewed as a danger to the authority and unity of the Church. Heresy is any belief or theory contradicting established beliefs or customs, especially the laws of a religious organization. Heresy in Christianity, Judaism and Islam can bring penalties from excommunication to death. With a standardized system for rooting out heretics, Pope Gregory IX wants to protect purity of the faith and maintain doctrinal conformity among the faithful. Hair Loss: 9 Natural Cures of Physician Dioscorides Edward Kelley: Alchemy & the Angels Glass & Arts of Ancient Glass Making Accusations of heresy require swift and decisive action. The Papal Inquisition wields significant power and influence, using a fearsome range of methods to identify, interrogate, and punish those suspected of heretical beliefs. These are the first many inquisitions. Escalating Conflicts The conflict between Guelphs and Ghibellines is intense in Genoa. Here the Guelphs are called rampini (grappling hooks) while Ghibellines are known as mascherati (masked). Genoa is under Guelph control in the early 13th century. Great Women of Renaissance Alchemy Dioscorides: Natural Medicine of Ancients Soap & Medicine Herb of Ancients In 1270, rebellion creates a separate short-term government. Guelph families seek refuge in strongholds to the east (Fieschi) and west (Grimaldi). After many military campaigns, they end resistance and are readmitted into the city's political life after covering the costs of war. Following the victories of the Tuscan Guelphs over the Ghibellines in 1289 at the Battle of Campaldino and Vicopisano, internal conflicts emerge among the Guelphs. By 1300, the Florentine Guelphs have split into Black and White factions. Eye of Ra Egypt - Wrath of the Woman Nigella Sativa: Black Seed of Healers Alchemy: How to Make Rosaceum Oil The Black Guelphs remain loyal to the Papacy. The White Guelphs oppose Papal authority and the influence of Pope Boniface VIII. Divine Comedy author Dante Alighieri sides with the White Guelphs and is banished in 1302 when the Black Guelphs seize power in Florence. At the end of the 16th century in England, William Shakespeare sets his classic "Romeo and Juliet", a tale of lovestruck tragedy, in 14th century Italy. The Montagues and Capulets are feuding families in Verona, a town of varying allegiances to the Guelphs and Ghibellines. Gnosticism: Gnostic Ways of Thought Panacea: Goddess of Universal Health Horse in Dreams - Meaning of Horses In medieval Italy, people with no ties to the Guelphs or Ghibellines consider neither group worthy of support. Citizens feel the impact of political shifts in the cities. Emperor Henry VII expresses disdain for supporters of both sides during his visit to Italy in 1310. In 1325, the city-states of Guelph Bologna and Ghibelline Modena clash in the War of the Bucket. Modena's win causes a resurgence of Ghibelline influence. In 1334, Pope Benedict XII threatens to excommunicate anyone identified with either Guelph or Ghibelline factions. Pope vs Alchemy 1317 AD: Falsification Complexes: Psychology of the Psyche Zodiac, Astrology & Jungian Psychology In Milan, Guelphs and Ghibellines work together to form the Golden Ambrosian Republic in 1447. They're soon embroiled in fierce conflicts. Following the initial rule of the Ghibellines, the Guelphs take control during the election of the Captains and Defenders of the Liberty of Milan. The Guelph administration becomes more authoritarian, prompting a Ghibelline rebellion plot. The conspiracy is unsuccessful, resulting in the massacre of many Ghibellines in 1449. Baltic Amber - Gold of the North Spiritual Alchemy: Fixatio (Fixation) Lapis Lazuli & Gold: Jungian Alchemy Symbolism In the 1400s, the Guelphs back Charles VIII of France in his invasion of Italy at the start of the Italian Wars. Ghibellines side with Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor. The names appear in cities and families until Holy Roman Emperor Charles V takes imperial control of Italy in 1529. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

The Protestant Reformation is one of the most significant movements in Western history. It transforms not just the Christian Church but much of European society. Here are events leading to the Reformation, key figures, conflicts and lasting effects. Rise & Fall of the Habsburg Dynasty Europe Hundred Years’ War: Battles & Overview Renaissance Wars: Venice vs. Ottoman Events Leading Up to the Reformation The stage for the Protestant Reformation is set long before Martin Luther famously nails his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg in 1517. Several factors contributing to the discontent with the Catholic Church culminate in widespread reform. Corruption within the Church : By the late 15th century, the Catholic Church is rife with corruption. Clergy are often more concerned with wealth and power than spiritual guidance, and practices like simony (buying church offices) and pluralism (holding multiple church positions) is widespread. The Avignon Papacy : From 1309 to 1377, a series of popes resides in Avignon instead of Rome, creating the perception of a weak and politically entangled church. Known as the Avignon Papacy, it leaves many people disillusioned and skeptical of papal authority. The Renaissance : The Renaissance fosters a spirit of inquiry and individualism, leading people to question traditional beliefs, including those held by the Church. Humanist thinkers encourage a return to original texts, including the Bible, prompting critical analyses of religious doctrines. Technological Advances : The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg around 1440 significantly aids the spread of Reformation ideas. With the ability to produce books quickly and cheaply, reformers can distribute their writings widely, reaching a more extensive audience than ever before. Thirty Years' War: Conflict, Antagonists, and Impact on Society Religious Wars Catholics & Protestants France Catherine de' Medici & the Occult Key Figures of the Reformation While many individuals played crucial roles in the Reformation, a few have decisive influence and impact. They include: Martin Luther : A German monk and theologian, Luther is often credited as the catalyst for the Reformation. His Ninety-Five Theses condemn sale of indulgences, arguing salvation cannot be bought but is a gift from God through faith. John Calvin : A French theologian and reformer in Geneva, Calvin emphasized the sovereignty of God and predestination. His ideas are the foundation of Reformed theology and influenced many Protestant churches. Ulrich Zwingli : A contemporary of Luther in Switzerland, Zwingli introduces reformative ideas in Zurich, advocating for a more scripturally based approach to worship and governance within the church. Henry VIII : The king of England who initiates the English Reformation, mainly for personal reasons. His desire for an annulment from Catherine of Aragon leads to the break from the Catholic Church and the establishment of the Church of England. Thirty Years' War Europe: Five Major Battles Pope vs Alchemy 1317 AD: Falsification Glauber: Preparation of a Golden Spirit of Wine Conflicts The Reformation sparks a series of conflicts, both theological and political. . Theological Disputes : The core issues of authority, interpretation of the Bible, and the nature of faith generate fierce debate among reformers and the Catholic Church. The Council of Trent (1545-1563) seeks to address these issues from a Catholic perspective. Political Conflicts : The rise of Protestantism coalesces with nationalistic sentiments. Countries like Denmark, Sweden, and parts of Switzerland embrace Protestantism. Meanwhile, Catholic monarchs such as Charles V seek to maintain the unity of the Church and the Holy Roman Empire, leading to conflicts like the Schmalkaldic Wars. Moral and Social Conflicts : The Reformation also ignites social change and unrest, particularly in peasant revolts. The most notable is the German Peasants' War of 1524-1525. Some reformers, including Luther, ultimately distance themselves from these movements, fearing they could undermine the religious reforms. Alchemy, Demons & the Roman Inquisition Panacea: Goddess of Universal Health Natural Health: Paracelsus & Hermetic Principles Effects on Church and Society The ramifications of the Protestant Reformation were profound and multifaceted. Fragmentation of Christianity : The Reformation leads to the establishment of various Protestant denominations, such as Lutheranism, Calvinism and Anglicanism. This fragmentation marks a significant shift from the monolithic structure of the Catholic Church. Catholic Counter-Reformation : In response, the Catholic Church initiates the Counter-Reformation, aiming to address corruption, reaffirm doctrinal issues, and revitalize moral standards within the Church through councils, reforms, and the establishment of new religious orders. Societal Changes : The Reformation encourages a spirit of individualism and personal faith, leading to increased literacy rates as people sought to read the Bible themselves. Emphasis on education and questioning of authority pave the way for the Enlightenment. Political Realignments : The Reformation reconfigures power dynamics in Europe, with Protestant states emerging as significant political entities. This eventually builds to the rise of modern nation-states and the decline of papal power. Alchemy & Prague: Countess Barbara von Zweibrücken-Neuburg Literature: Great Literary Patrons in History Ancient Traders & Buyers: Art of Testing Metals The Protestant Reformation is a tempestuous period reshaping the course of history. The Reformation catalyzes societal change, inspiring art, music, literature and new political structures. Rise of individualism, the printing press and focus on personal interpretation of scripture revolutionizes Europe in ways never before seen. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

White pigments used in ancient art, spirituality and beauty include bone, limestone variations like chalk and other natural sources. Some carving stones are especially valued for pigmentation. The first three colors of the Paleolithic palette are black, red and white. Weld Yellow: Ancient Nature Pigments Mulberry Tree (Morus): Uses, Folklore & Myth Red Ocher (Ochre) Ancient Pigments White pigments date back to cave paintings c. 200,000 years ago. White limestone, chalk or calcite walls make perfect backgrounds for colors. On darker paintings, white highlights the figures and catches the light. Archaeological finds of artisan tools used by early people include an abalone shell used to contain pigment, and a quartzite grinding stone. Pigments like charcoal and red ocher are also found. Early humans use crushed limestone varieties such as calcite, gypsum and chalk. Chalk white most famously comes from White Cliffs of Dover, England. The chalk cliffs at Dover are layers of soft, white, finely grained limestone accumulated over millions of years. Woad, the People's Blue: Ancient Pigments Romanesque - Magic of Light & Stone Alchemy: Dyeing Stones to Look Like Gems Artists use sticks, bones, fingers and brushes of horse hair to apply the color to the surface. Horses are originally hunted for food and eventually domesticated by c. 3800 BCE. Even today some paint brushes are made with horsehair. A prehistoric cave habitation yields a wolf's leg-bone used as a drawing stick, with one end dipped in ocher. From minerals used in one painting or sculpture anthropologists can deduce the paths and directions taken by early people. Alchemy: Science, Philosophy, Magic Elderberry Tree: Germanic Nature Lore Curse of the Evil Eye & Apotropaic Magic Paleolithic artists test and experiment with color. Red is used, especially ocher, but also hematite or heated goethite. A heating process indicates the interest early people have in expression and communication through color, and the chemistry of creation. The paint color lead white  is originally made with lead . It's a popular artists' color and house paint until the 19th century. Early methods of making lead white include placing lead shavings above vinegar in specially designed clay pots. The product is known as ceruse. Lead White & Minium Red: Colors to Die For Egyptian Blue - First Synthetic Color Poison Pigments of Painters: Renaissance For hundreds of years lead-based white pigment such as ceruse is used to lighten the skin in ritual, fashion or cosmetic application. In Elizabethan times and later, lead white is applied to the face by elite men and women. Both geisha and maiko (geisha trainees) wear traditional white foundation, oshiroi . In the past, the white makeup is made with lead. The women wear oshiroi due to the porcelain-like glow it gives the skin when applied in layers. Lapis Lazuli: Creating Ultramarine Prussian Blue - Delight of Artists & Poisoners Erinyes - Vengeful Women of Ancient Greece In the past, Kabuki actors also wear thick lead-based oshiroi . Makeup using lead is banned in Japan in 1934. Today's oshiroi makeup is a blend of ingredients crystal cellulose, talc and silk. Lead white can also be toasted to create minium red, a popular paint pigment in medieval times and Middle Ages. It's often used in illuminated manuscripts. Queen Eleanor & the Calamitous Crusade Christine de Pizan: Medieval Writings Tricky Alchemy: Caput Mortuum Purple Kaolin, kaolinite and china white are the same pigment, named for the region of the Gaoling or Kao-ling village, where the clay is found. This particular clay is coveted for porcelain and fine artwork. Kaolin is also abundant in Europe and the United States. It forms the clay mineral Earth of Chios, from the Greek Island Chios, used in ancient medicine and alchemy. Silver - Queen of Precious Metals Kaolinite: White Pigment with Benefits Pomegranate - Food of the Ancients Where ostriches roam, ostrich eggs make a good meal. The shells can be ground up and used as white pigment. Not only do they make a paint color, they're carved into ornaments or used as containers, or as palettes for paint. No problem if the artist ingests some. The shells are non-toxic and high in calcium (97%). They're composed of magnesium, protein, selenium, strontium and other compounds said to be good for bones and joints. But first you have to get past the ostrich. Verdigris: Volatile Blue Green Pigment Kohl: Eye Beauty Magic of Ancients Valerian: Natural Health & Essential Oils Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

Black is among the first pigments in the palette of early humans. By Paleolithic times, black defines lines, shadows and meaning. Black pigment materials include charcoal, burnt bone fragments and inks and dyes like oak galls . White Pigments of Ancient Artisans Limonite: Ancient Earth Pigments Eirenaeus Philalethes: Alchemy & Death in Renaissance London Black comes from the absence or complet e absorption of visible light. It's impossible to get a true pure black in nature. Most blacks have warm or cool tones. The hex codes above are 'official' versions of virtual black. Artists often disagree with these interpretations. For instance ebony black in hex (above) is medium greenish grey, and charcoal black shows an odd medium grey-blue. Nature also presents variations; and, no two people see a color exactly the same way. Ebony - Precious Wood of Ancients Woad, the People's Blue: Ancient Pigments Humbaba: Giant Mountain Forest Man In Paleolithic times and earlier, artisans experiment with grinding, charring, carving and sculpting various materials. White, black and red are the earliest paint pigments used, abundant in nature. Throughout history artisans seek the finest, richest, deepest tones in pigments, dyes and sculpting material. An early source of black is soot from oil lamps. It creates a warm dense black and is found in art supply stores as Lamp Black. Weld Yellow: Ancient Nature Pigments Red Madder: Organic Ancient Colors Nature Spirits of German Mythology Many natural blacks, not surprisingly, come from charring. People easily make black pigment by heating and charring wood and other plant products. The equivalent in artist's paint stores is Carbon Black or Charcoal Black. Carbon black today is created from natural gas in an environment of controlled oxygen and temperature. In this way, fine particles of consistent quality are produced. This carbon black can also be used in ink. Kaolinite: White Pigment with Benefits Megaliths & Building at Gobekli Tepe Prussian Blue - Delight of Artists & Poisoners The largest producers of wood charcoal today are Indonesia, China, Poland, Vietnam and Laos. Besides making artists' products charcoal's popular for cooking and barbecue, and its odor-absorption and filtering properties. Charcoal has been made the same way for thousands of years, using a pyrolysis technique, or heating organic material in the absence of oxygen. Charcoal makers heat the wood at over 400° C (750° F) in a closed environment. Lead White & Minium Red: Colors to Die For Great Women Artists - Käthe Kollwitz Cattle Goddesses & the Cosmic Cow The process is exothermic. It releases heat, causing temperature of the immediate surroundings to rise. This intensifies the level of heat. In a situation of no oxygen fires tend to go out, thus charcoal making is an art form in some regions. For centuries charcoal is created in pits, hill dugouts or kiln-like constructions as people experiment with darker denser charcoals. For cooking, hard fragrant woods like oak, hickory and fruit tree wood are best. Egyptian Blue - First Synthetic Color Kotharat - Bronze Age Birth Goddesses Turquoise: Precious Stone of Ancients Charcoal can easily be applied with the fingers as wall decor, body and face paint. Above, the white is kaolin clay or a limestone derivative. Kaolin is used in both art and medicine. The spiritual meaning of black in ancient times is usually positive. Different woods or processes yield various types and densities of charcoal, from crumbly soft to an almost conte-like hardness. It can be smudged or used to draw with precision. Willow is commonly used to make artists' charcoal. Jimson Weed, Witches & Zombies Elderberry Tree: Germanic Nature Lore   Red Ocher (Ochre) Ancient Pigments Charred grape vines and stems yield Vine Black. Fundamentally black is not black as nature blacks vary in tone, incorporating cool (blue) or warm (yellow, red) hues. Blue, yellow and red are the primary colors of the color wheel. With black and white they form all colors. A mixture of black and yellow creates greens found in nature. The hex triplets black and yellow mixed at 50/50 make a natural olive green. Different amounts or shades of yellow added to pure black yield lighter and darker greens. Milk & Dairy: Ancient Lactose Gene Chalcanthite: Crystal Blue Explosion Mulberry Tree (Morus): Uses, Folklore & Myth The giant deer or Megaloceros giganteus exists from 400,000 years ago to c. 4800 BCE. Bones and antlers of this animal can be charred to make black paint. Spiritually the deer products hold power and essence of the animal both as object of veneration and prey. For magic and ritual as in shamanism, using parts of the desired animal as means of expression (art, dance) can attract these animals into one's sphere of being. In animal spirituality the stag represents beginnings, leadership, virility and nature magic. Isabella Cortese: Renaissance Writer, Alchemist, Entrepreneur Horse in Dreams - Meaning of Horses Pretty Poisons: Holly, Yew, Mistletoe Galls or gall nuts are round or bulbous growths on plants and trees, usually the gall oak. These form because an insect, usually a type of wasp, lays its eggs on the tree. The tree forms a tannin-rich coating around the egg to protect itself. It gets hard, and also protects the larva. The gall wasp goes through four larval stages, all inside the gall until the final, adult phase. The wasp gnaws its way out, leaving a small round hole in the gall. If there's no hole, the larva is still inside. Picking those with holes make galls a renewable resource. Galls & Gall Nuts: Black Ink, Dye, Medicine Almadén Mines: Ancient Mercury Extraction Metal & Gemstone Dyeing in Alchemy The galls are crushed and cooked with iron filings and water. This will create an ink from dark brown to rich black. To blacken it deeper, add more iron filings. Ferrous sulfate also works. It can also be used as a dye for fabric or yarn, and because it's high in tannins it's not necessary to use a mordant. It makes a good mordant for cotton and linen fabrics. Ivory is also used in art and imported from Africa c. 1500 BCE. A favorite of sculptors and artisans because of its soft gleam, it's better known as a black pigment than a white one. Ivory black comes from ivory elephant tusks charred in a closed room. Best Mortar & Pestles for Artists, Chefs, Scientists Chemistry of Rust: Minerals & Pigment Colors Natural Iron Oxide Pigments: Extraction, Types & Colors The ivory fractures into splinters, which are then finely ground into a chalky black pigment. The pigments are synthetically made today. Besides extinct mammoths, ivory comes from the elephant, walrus, narwhal, sperm whale, hippopotamus and warthog. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top

The Habsburg Dynasty in history is one of Europe’s most powerful and influential royal families. From origins in the Swiss canton of Aargau, lasting over six centuries, the Habsburgs rise to dominate European politics, culture, and society, and then decline dramatically. Thirty Years' War: Conflict, Antagonists, and Impact on Society Hundred Years’ War: Battles & Overview Renaissance Wars: Venice vs. Ottoman Rise of the Habsburgs The roots of the Habsburg Dynasty can be traced back to the 11th century, with its name derived from Habsburg Castle in present-day Switzerland. Initially, the Habsburgs are a minor noble family, but their fortunes change dramatically in the late Middle Ages. The pivotal moment arrives in 1273 when Rudolf of Habsburg is elected King of the Romans. Prague in Bohemia grows into a power center of the Holy Roman Empire when Charles IV is crowned Emperor in 1355. In the early 15th century, Vienna Austria becomes the capital. Thirty Years' War Europe: Five Major Battles Religious Wars Catholics & Protestants France Catherine de' Medici & the Occult Strategic Marriages By marrying into other royal and noble families, the Habsburgs y expand influence without need of military conquest. An example is the marriage of Maximilian I to Mary of Burgundy in 1477, which brought vast territories in the Low Countries under Habsburg control. This practice became encapsulated in the famous Habsburg motto: "Let others wage war; you, happy Austria, marry." As a result of these political unions, the Habsburgs become rulers of a vast empire including parts of modern-day Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic and Spain. Acquisition of the Spanish throne with the marriage of Charles V to Isabella of Portugal further solidifies their power. Knights Templar Crusades & Medieval France Caterina Sforza: Renaissance Alchemy Almadén Mines: Ancient Mercury Extraction Vast regions become united under a single dynasty, creating one of the largest empires in European history. Under the reign of Charles V, the empire is so vast it coins another saying, “the sun never sets on the Habsburg Empire.” The Habsburgs are also patrons of the arts, collectors of fine artifacts, and architects of grand palaces. The splendor of court is legendary, attracting artists, scientists, scholars, and nobles from across the known world. Sophie Brahe Writer, Alchemist & Astronomer Johann Glauber: Fulminating Gold & Sodium Sulfate Medieval France: Peasants, Knights & Urbanites Height of Power The Habsburgs reach the zenith of power in the 16th century under Charles V. It covers significant portions of Europe, including Spain, the Netherlands, Austria, and parts of Italy and the Americas. The Habsburgs, still wedding strategically, develop a strong military force. Charles V's reign is marked by significant events such as the Protestant Reformation, which challenges the dominant Catholic Church and leads to decades of religious conflict in Europe. The Habsburgs maintain influence through military strength, diplomacy, and religious loyalty. They play a key role in countering Ottoman expansion into Europe. Rudolf II Renaissance Prague: Alchemy, Eros & Occult Christine de Pizan: Medieval Writings Malaria: Roman Fever & Renaissance Plague The Decline of the Habsburgs While the Habsburgs enjoy great power for centuries, the dynasty begins to show signs of decline in the 17th century. The Thirty Years' War (1618 - 1648) devastates much of Europe, leading to economic struggles, population decline, and weakening political cohesion. The War of Spanish Succession (1701 - 1714) further drains their resources. The strife is between the Catholic Habsburgs and the French Protestant House of Bourbon over the Spanish throne when Charles II of Spain dies without an heir. Poison Pigments of Painters: Renaissance Johann Glauber: Fulminating Gold & Sodium Sulfate Cosimo de' Medici & the Italian Renaissance Internal Strife and Fragmentation The vastness of the Habsburg Empire is a double-edged sword. Managing diverse territories grows increasingly complex, causing internal strife and fragmentation. The dual monarchy of Austria and Hungary is a prime example, and tensions continue to grow. The rise of nationalism in the 19th century further weakens Habsburg authority. Various ethnic groups within the empire assert their identity and demand autonomy, culminating in the 1848 revolutions across Europe. The Habsburgs quell these uprisings temporarily. Famous Women of Renaissance Alchemy Expulsion of Intellectuals Alexandria 145 BCE Baltic Amber in Folklore and Myth The Great War The tipping point for the Habsburgs is the outbreak of World War I. The war exposes the empire's vulnerabilities, leading to immense social and economic turmoil. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Duchess Sophie in 1914 is a catalyst for the conflict. The political aim behind the assassination is to liberate Bosnia and Herzegovina from Austria-Hungarian control and create a unified South Slav ("Yugoslav") nation. This event triggers the July Crisis; Austria-Hungary then declares war on Serbia and World War I begins. Seven Metals of Antiquity - Metallurgy Hair Loss: 9 Natural Cures of Physician Dioscorides The Anxious Victorian - Mental Health In 1918 the Austro-Hungarian Empire crumbles. New nation-states of Czechoslovakia, Hungary and Yugoslavia emerge from the ashes of the empire. The last emperor, Charles I, tries to regain his throne but ultimately goes into exile, and that's the end of the Habsburg Dynasty. Sylvia Rose Books Non-Fiction Books: World of Alchemy: Spiritual Alchemy World of Alchemy: A Little History Fiction Books: READ: Lora Ley Adventures  - Germanic Mythology Fiction Series READ: Reiker For Hire  - Victorian Detective Murder Mysteries Back to Top