The Four Books of Psuedo-Democritus

The Four Books of Pseudo-Democritus by Matteo Martelli: Sources of Alchemy and Chemistry: Sir Robert Mond Studies in the History of Early Chemistry 

AMBIX VOLUME 60 SUPPLEMENT 1 2013

The Four Books of pseudo-Democritus, written in the first century AD, are among the earliest known alchemical writings. In this volume, Matteo Martelli not only presents a fresh edition and translation of the surviving Greek fragments, but also, for the first time, includes additional materials preserved in Syriac. The volume showcases important examples of the early modern and medieval reception of Synesius and Dioscorus, featuring the most intriguing Byzantine commentary on the Four Books. It also includes previously unpublished Latin translations of both the Four Books and Synesius' commentary, made by Matthaeus Zuber in 1606. Accompanied by a full translation and commentary, these sources offer new and significant insights into the world of ancient chemistry, including practical recipes and lists of ingredients, clues to the doctrinal content of ancient alchemy, and early hints of a tradition that linked the alchemist 'Democritus' to the wisdom of Egypt and Persia.

Date Published: 2013

Page Number: 306

Cover Type: Perfect bound 

Dimensions: 17.4 x 1.75 x 24.61 cm

Illustrations: 3 Black and white

Edition:First

General Editors: Lawrrence M. Principe and Jennifer M. Rampling