Authors/Nicolaus Stein

Dedications, Prefaces, Postfaces

• Dedicatory Preface, 25 January 1602, Nicolaus Stein to Georg Schwalenberg; German (Source: BP.Alchemica.1602-01) (#5696)

from: Elucidatio Secretorum, Das ist/ Erklährung der Geheimnussen, wie der Lapis Philosophorum funden/ vnd die vniuersal Medicin erlanget wirdt, Frankfurt am Main: Wolfgang Richter for Nicolaus Stein, 1602

Stein extols Schwalenberger's noble and scholarly qualities and his expertise in secret philosophy, particularly alchemy. The dedication underscores the widespread disdain for alchemy among various social and intellectual circles, attributing this contempt to ignorance and misunderstanding. Stein passionately argues that alchemy, being a profound and divine art, is often misunderstood and maligned by those unacquainted with its true nature and potential. The text delves into the philosophical and moral aspects of alchemy, emphasizing that true understanding and practice of this art are gifts from God, as articulated by the Apostle James. The author laments that few have achieved mastery in alchemy, not due to any fault in the art itself but because of a lack of proper qualification and dedication among practitioners.
Stein highlights three historical figures renowned for their contributions to alchemy: Raymundus Lullius, Bernhardus Trevisanus, and Basilius Valentinus. He describes their intense devotion to and achievements in the field, stressing their noble efforts to use their knowledge for the greater good. Stein expresses his intention to make the works and experiences of these alchemists accessible to a wider audience, particularly to those who are not versed in Latin, by publishing their experiments and insights.
In conclusion, Stein dedicates his work to Schwalenbergero, acknowledging his long-standing dedication and significant contributions to the study of alchemy. He expresses gratitude for Schwalenbergero's past support and guidance, hoping that his own efforts in compiling and disseminating alchemical knowledge will be well received and beneficial.

• Preface, (1602), [by Nicolaus Stein]; German (Source: BP.Alchemica.1602-01) (#5697)

from: Elucidatio Secretorum, Das ist/ Erklährung der Geheimnussen, wie der Lapis Philosophorum funden/ vnd die vniuersal Medicin erlanget wirdt, Frankfurt am Main: Wolfgang Richter for Nicolaus Stein, 1602

• Preface, 24 March 1610, by Nicolaus Stein; German (Source: BP.Alchemica.1610-01) (#5700)

from: Elucidatio Secretorum, Das ist/ Erklährung der Geheimnussen, wie der Lapis Philosophorum funden/ vnd die vniuersal Medicin erlanget wirdt, Frankfurt am Main: Nicolaus Stein, 1610