The Alchemist

Due to required maintenance, some galleries and artwork may be off view. Learn more

Currently not on view

The Alchemist

c. 1558

Philips Galle (Flemish, 1537–1612) After a drawing of 1558 by Pieter Bruegel the Elder (Netherlandish (active Antwerp and Brussels), c. 1525–1569) Published by Hieronymus Cock (Netherlandish, c. 1510–1570)

Alchemy, a pseudoscientific practice that sought to turn base metals into gold, is depicted here as a vain and fruitless pursuit. The alchemist (at far left) drops a silver coin into a bucket, while his wife reveals an empty coin purse and his children rummage for food in an empty cupboard. The consequences of this futile quest for riches are shown in the background, where the alchemist and his family are about to enter the poorhouse, designated “hospital” above the door.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

The Alchemist

Date:

c. 1558

Artists:

Medium:

Engraving

Dimensions:

Plate: 13 1/4 x 17 1/2 inches (33.7 x 44.5 cm) Sheet: 14 5/8 x 19 7/16 inches (37.1 x 49.4 cm)

Classification:

Prints

Credit Line:

The Muriel and Philip Berman Gift, acquired from the John T. Morris Collection given to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in 1925 by Lydia Thompson Morris, with funds contributed by Muriel and Philip Berman, gifts (by exchange) of Lisa Norris Elkins, Bryant W. Langston, Samuel S. White 3rd and Vera White, with additional funds contributed by John Howard McFadden, Jr., Thomas Skelton Harrison, and the Philip H. and A.S.W. Rosenbach Foundation, 1985

Accession Number:

1985-52-392

Geography:

Made in Haarlem, Netherlands, Europe Published in Antwerp, Southern Netherlands (modern Belgium), Europe

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view

More like this:

1/12