Re: VMs: Alchemical

[Jorge Stolfi <stolfi@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

François asked  
  
  > Have you remarked the VMs doesn't have a religious sign ?!
  > No catholic/protestant/jewish symbol. I'm sure of this.

The almost complete lack of symbols from major European religions has
been noted before. However,

  * There are a couple of *possible* Christian symbols:

    1. a "nymph" in the Zodiac section is wearing a crown with a
    cross. However the ink of the crown is quite a bit darker than
    that of the nymph; I am convinced that it is a later addition, but
    Glen and others maintain that it is an original feature.

    2. another "nymph" in the Biological section is holding a
    cross-shaped object. I doubt whether it is actually a Christian
    cross icon, since it seems to be held as a tool rather than as an
    object of reverence.

  * The nine-circle diagram on the big fold-out has been claimed
  to resemble a Jewish kabalistic diagram of virtues/powers/whatever.
  Perhaps those who know about the kabala will want comment on this.
  
  * The "salt shakers" at the very center of the nine-circle diagram
  may be towers with "onion" roofs, which could mean oriental-style
  chrch towers or islamic minarets. 

--stolfi
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