V.I.T.R.I.O.L. - VITRIOL Alchemical Motto Print, Basil Valentine – 'Chymical Wedding' (17th Century)– Occult Art, Hermetic Alchemy, Freemasonry, Magick & Esoteric Illustration for Mystics, Magic Home Decor #61

This VITRIOL Alchemical Print is a rare reproduction of one of the most iconic emblems of Hermetic philosophy, attributed to Basil Valentine, the legendary 16th–17th century alchemist. The motto V.I.T.R.I.O.L. is inscribed in the circle: Visita Interiora Terrae Rectificando Invenies Occultum Lapidem (“Visit the interior of the earth, and by rectification you will find the hidden stone”).

This phrase encapsulates the entire spiritual and practical program of alchemy: the search for the Philosopher’s Stone, both as a material elixir and as a symbol of inner transformation and enlightenment. The emblem, preserved in Valentine’s Chymical Wedding and widely copied in alchemical literature, remains one of the most recognized occult symbols in Hermetic, Masonic, and esoteric traditions.

What the Artwork Depicts

• The Central Motto V.I.T.R.I.O.L. – The words encircle the diagram, forming a mandala-like seal of Hermetic wisdom.

• Planetary and Alchemical Symbols – The signs of the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn appear within the circle, representing the seven classical planets and metals of alchemy.

• Lion and Mythical Beasts – Heraldic lions guard the mysteries of transformation, symbolizing strength, courage, and the fire of purification.

• Celestial and Terrestrial Spheres – The image unites heaven and earth, spirit and matter, mirroring the alchemical dictum “as above, so below.”

• The Philosopher’s Star – At the bottom lies the radiant star, representing the perfected Stone and the illumination of divine wisdom.

Symbolism and Esoteric Meaning

• V.I.T.R.I.O.L. as the Alchemical Path – The motto is not only a guide to laboratory alchemy but also a spiritual instruction for the seeker: descend into the depths of your own being, purify and transform, and discover the hidden treasure within.

• The Hidden Stone – In Hermetic philosophy, the Stone is both the philosopher’s goal and the awakened self, the eternal spark of divinity within matter.

• Seven Planets / Seven Metals – The planetary signs remind the adept of the alchemical correspondences: Sun = gold, Moon = silver, Mercury = mercury, Venus = copper, Mars = iron, Jupiter = tin, Saturn = lead.

• The Lion – A recurring emblem in alchemy, the lion symbolizes the untamed forces of nature, the prima materia that must be transmuted into spiritual gold.

• Hermetic Union – The diagram emphasizes unity between the macrocosm (cosmos) and microcosm (human soul), reflecting the eternal Hermetic principle of correspondence.

Historical Context – Basil Valentine, 16th–17th Century

Basil Valentine (Basilius Valentinus) is the legendary Benedictine monk and alchemist to whom many influential alchemical texts were attributed in the late Renaissance and early Baroque period. His writings, including The Twelve Keys and The Chymical Wedding, shaped the symbolic and allegorical language of European alchemy.

The V.I.T.R.I.O.L. emblem became central not only in alchemy but also in Rosicrucian and Masonic traditions, where it symbolized inner initiation, moral purification, and the search for hidden wisdom. Its presence in alchemical manuscripts and engravings reveals the deep fascination with universal transformation that defined early modern Hermeticism.

Why Choose This Print?

• Rare reproduction of the classic VITRIOL alchemical emblem

• Associated with Basil Valentine and the symbolic tradition of the Chymical Wedding

• Rich in planetary, Hermetic, and Masonic symbolism

• A perfect piece of occult wall art, magical illustration, or esoteric study

• Ideal for those drawn to alchemy, Freemasonry, Hermetic philosophy, and mysticism

• A timeless emblem of the search for the Philosopher’s Stone and inner illumination

Perfect For

• Collectors of alchemy, Hermetic, and Masonic symbolism

• Practitioners of esoteric philosophy, ritual magic, and mystical alchemy

• Students of occult history, Rosicrucianism, and early modern mysticism

• Gothic and esoteric home decor, ritual altars, and meditation spaces

• Anyone seeking a powerful occult poster with deep spiritual resonance

A Vision of Transformation and the Hidden Stone

This V.I.T.R.I.O.L. Print is more than an image—it is an alchemical teaching, a mandala of spiritual transformation, and a symbol of Hermetic initiation. It invites the seeker to journey inward, to descend into the hidden depths, and to emerge transfigured by the light of the Stone.

Whether displayed as an alchemical diagram, mystical poster, or occult wall art, this emblem radiates the eternal wisdom of Hermeticism and the promise of transformation.

👉 Add this Basil Valentine VITRIOL Alchemical Motto Print to your collection and bring the timeless energy of alchemy, magic, and esoteric symbolism into your space.

Canvas vs. Hand-Made Paper — Print Comparison Guide