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Discovery of phosphorus, 17th century C013 / 7690
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Discovery of phosphorus, 17th century C013 / 7690
Discovery of phosphorus. 18th-century artwork thought by some to show the German alchemist Hennig Brand (c.1630-c.1710) discovering phosphorus (glowing) in 1669. Brand is kneeling by the glowing flask. Two young assistants stand near a small candle on a workbench. This 1775 engraving is by William Pether, after the 1771 painting The Alchemist in Search of the Philosophers Stone by Joseph Wright of Derby
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Media ID 9199761
© GREGORY TOBIAS/CHEMICAL HERITAGE FOUNDATION/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1600s 1669 17th Century 18th Century Alchemy Assistant Assistants Black And White Candle Chemicals Chemist Discovering Discovery Engraving German Glowing Hamburg History Of Science Phosphorous Scientist Workbench Working Young 1775 Joseph Wright Of Derby William Pether
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving takes us back to the 17th century, depicting a significant moment in scientific history - the discovery of phosphorus. The artwork is believed to portray German alchemist Hennig Brand, who made this groundbreaking discovery in 1669. In the image, we see Brand kneeling beside a glowing flask, his face illuminated by its ethereal light. Two young assistants stand nearby, their attention drawn to a small candle on a workbench. The scene exudes an air of intense curiosity and excitement as these individuals witness the birth of a new chemical element. Created in 1775 by William Pether after Joseph Wright of Derby's painting "The Alchemist in Search of the Philosophers Stone" this engraving beautifully captures both the historical significance and human drama surrounding this pivotal event. It transports us back to an era when alchemy was still practiced as part science and part mysticism. Through this artwork, we are reminded of the tireless pursuit of knowledge that has shaped our understanding of chemistry today. It serves as a testament to humanity's unending quest for discovery and innovation. As we gaze upon this print from Science Photo Library's collection at Chemical Heritage Foundation, we can't help but feel inspired by those early pioneers who dared to explore unknown realms and unravel nature's secrets.
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