F. C. H.
EARLY GERMAN COLOURED ENGRAVINGS.
(Vol. ix., p. 57.)
H.'s prints are probably cut from a work on Alchemy, entitled
"Lambspring, das ist ein herzlichen Teutscher Tractat vom philosophischen Steine, welchen für Jahren ein adelicher Teutscher Philosophus so Lampert Spring geheissen, mit schönen Figuren beschreiben hat. Frankfurt-am-Main, bey Lucca Jennis zu finden." 1625, 4to. pp. 36.
The series of plates extends to fifteen, among which are those described by H. Some are remarkable for good drawing and spirited expression, and all are good for the time. The verses which belong to Plate 2. are printed on the back of Plate 1., and so on, which rendered transcription necessary on mounting them. Each represents, figuratively, one of the steps towards the philosopher's stone. Some have Latin explanations at the foot. Not understanding alchemy, I can appreciate them only as works of art. An account of one as a specimen may be of some interest, so I select the least unintelligible.
Plate 6. A dragon eating his own tail.
Above: