INTRODUCTION

TO THE TRUE PHYSICS original: "vraie Physique." In the 18th century, "physics" or "natural philosophy" referred to the study of the laws of nature, often encompassing biology, chemistry, and what we now call alchemy.

Unknown until now.

By JEAN OTTO VON HELLWIG

original: "Jean Otton Helbig." Hellwig was a famous traveler and physician who served the Sultan of Bantam in Indonesia.

of Thuringia,

A region in central Germany known for its academic and alchemical traditions.

Philosopher and Doctor of Medicine.

A N E P I S T L E

Written from the East Indies to Europe,

addressed to the celebrated Academy

of Germany of the Curious Investigators

of Nature;

original: "Académie d'Allemagne des Curieux de la Nature." This refers to the Academia Naturae Curiosorum, now known as the Leopoldina, one of the oldest scientific societies in the world.

Translated

By MASSIET DE LA GARDE. V. A.

A small floral fleuron ornament.

*Begin to know Man physically,

you who wish to know

true Physics: know yourself well,

and you shall know it.*
This verse highlights the Hermetic concept of the microcosm: that the laws of the universe (Physics) are mirrored within the human body.

A decorative typographical ornament with elaborate scrollwork and a central foliate motif.

Printed on the Island of the Wise.

original: "l'Isle des Sages." This is a common allegorical place of publication used in alchemical and esoteric literature to suggest the work contains secret or sacred knowledge.

1760.