Early modern practical alchemy

The Twelve Keys of Basil Valentine

Name: The Twelve Keys of Basil Valentine
Author: Basil Valentine

AdvancedPrimary Sourcecomplete

A series of twelve allegorical 'keys' describing the stages and processes required to achieve the Philosopher's Stone. Each key presents both symbolic illustrations and practical laboratory instructions for alchemical transformations. Combines spiritual allegory with genuine chemical operations, particularly emphasizing metallic transmutation and the preparation of medicinal elixirs. One of the most frequently cited and influential texts in laboratory alchemy, notable for its detailed practical instructions clothed in religious and mystical symbolism.

Also known asTwelve Keys of Philosophy · Duodecim Claves

This edition1678

EditionOriginal publication 1599, English edition 1678. Public Domain EPUB Integration

AlchemyAlchemical TransformationSalt, Sulphur, Mercury (Three Principles)Transmutation & Elixir of LifeAlchemical meditationAlchemical laboratory workHermeticismesoteric symbolismAlchemical symbolism

Contents22 chapters

01Twelve Keys of Basil Valentine
02The Preface of Basilius Valentinus, the Benedictine Concerning The Great Stone of the Ancient Sages.
03The Tract of Basilius Valentinus, the Benedictine, Concerning the Great Stone of the Ancient Sages.
04Here follow the Twelve Keys of Basilius Valentinus, the Benedictine, with which we may open the doors of the knowledge of the Most Ancient Stone and unseal the Most Secret Fountain of Health.
05FIRST KEY
06SECOND KEY
07THIRD KEY
08FOURTH KEY
09FIFTH KEY
10SIXTH KEY
11SEVENTH KEY
12EIGHTH KEY
13NINTH KEY
14TENTH KEY
15ELEVENTH KEY
16TWELFTH KEY
17Concerning the First Matter of the Philosophical Stone
18A short Appendix and clear Resumption of the foregoing Tract concerning the Great Stone of the Ancient Sages
19Now follows concerning Sulphur
20Now I will also give my Opinion respecting the Salt of the Sages
21Thanks be to God.
22Postscript