The Magnetic Kingdom of Nature

An elaborate engraved frontispiece from a work by Athanasius Kircher.

At the top, a divine hand emerges from a bank of clouds. It holds a metal ring. From this ring hangs a chain of circular links. This chain forms a diamond shaped frame around the central elements. Within the upper portion of this frame are celestial bodies, including a radiant sun and a crescent moon. There are also two symmetrical arcs of seven pointed stars. Two winding scrolls or banners are positioned at the upper sides.

In the center of the image, a winged angel or genius figure stands behind a large open book. The angel holds a celestial globe in their right hand and a pair of balance scales in their left.

Suspended from the chain on either side and at the bottom are three circular medallions. The left medallion depicts a magnetic compass with a needle. It is labeled with the word Unswervingly. The right medallion depicts a palm tree being weighed down by a heavy stone. It is labeled Though pressed down, it will rise again. The bottom medallion depicts a rooster and a stag in a landscape. It is encircled by the phrase Nature delights in nature.

At the very bottom of the page, there are three separate rectangular panels. These illustrate scientific or natural principles. The left panel shows a semicircular dial, likely a magnetic or solar clock. It is numbered from 6 to 12 to 6. A small tree stands in the center. It is marked with letters A, B, and C. The central panel shows a landscape with a winding river flowing between two banks with trees. It is marked with letters A, B, a, b, c, and d. The right panel shows a plant or flower growing under four different phases of the moon. It is marked with the letter C.

original: "Arcanis nodis ligantur mundi". This phrase reflects the Hermetic belief that all parts of the universe are interconnected by invisible, "magnetic" forces.

original: "Indeclinabiliter" and "Pressa resurget". The first refers to the constancy of the magnetic needle. The second is a traditional motto for the palm tree, which was believed to grow stronger when weighted down.

original: "ATHANASII KIRCHERI Regnum Naturæ Magneticum in triplici Magnete Inanimato Animato Sensitivo dispositum." Kircher argues that magnetism is not just a property of iron, but a universal force found in minerals (inanimate), plants (living/animated), and animals or humans (sensient).

original: "natura naturâ delectatur". This is an ancient Greek alchemical axiom. It suggests that natural things have a sympathetic attraction to one another.