Mathematician, magician, astronomer, astrologer, imperialist, alchemist and spy, John Dee (1527–1609) continues to fascinate and inspire centuries after he entered the court of Elizabeth I.
Our exhibition explores Dee through his personal library. On display for the first time are Dee's mathematical, astronomical and alchemical texts, many elaborately annotated and illustrated by Dee's own hand. Now held in the collections of the Royal College of Physicians, they reveal tantalising glimpses into the 'conjuror's mind'.
Dee's books will be displayed alongside loans from the Science Museum, the British Museum and the Wellcome Collection and will include Dee's mirror and crystal ball, and a specially commissioned film by acclaimed artist Jeremy Millar.
