Zosimos of Panopolis - Joshua Werrett

[Paul Ferguson]

"For Zosimos the alchemist (c.4th C. AD), it seems that the whole of alchemy depended upon the kairos – the opportune moment, determined via katarchic astrology, when an experiment would succeed. In fact, Zosimos refers to alchemical transformations as kairikai katabaphai – colour changes achieved at the kairos – and states that they are «subject to lunar influence and the passing of time» (The Visions 10.12). This paper explores Zosimos’ understanding of kairos and its importance in his alchemical practice."

Full text.

http://rivista.thaumazein.it/index.php/t...e/view/260