Domenico Beccafumi’s Alchemical Woodcuts Linked to Biringucci’s De la pirotechnia

Domenico Beccafumi (Monteaperti, 1478 – Siena, 1551) likely produced ten alchemical woodcuts as illustrations for Vannoccio Biringucci’s seminal work, De la pirotechnia, which is recognized as the first comprehensive guide on metals and casting methods. These xylographs were crafted between 1540 and 1550. Giorgio Vasari, in his book Le vite de’ più eccellenti pittori, elaborates on the creation of these engravings, depicting the efforts of Jupiter and the gods to solidify Mercury. The prints feature titles such as Vulcan in the forge, metals fleeing, and distillation, showcasing themes of alchemy and metalworking, with Vulcan embodying both the alchemist and the craftsman, while Mercury’s distant presence hints at a fusion of art, craft, and alchemy.