MULTIPLICATIO & EXALTATIO
At the end of the magnum opus, when rubedo’s red Sun shines both inside and out, the art lies in multiplying, enhancing and radiating the red projection powder or red elixir from the flaming heart. The divine mercury flows from above and below and multiplies through the effect of a multiplicatio of the elixir and projection powder, both in quality and quantity. In herbal alchemy one can multiply the completed elixir with mercury and water so that it is increased in quantity, to the benefit of many people. In alchemical images, this regenerative and fruitful operation is often depicted in the form of the lion's many cubs. One can also see the motif of the playing children as a figure of how the divine child is multiplied. The work involves allowing the material to return to its prima materia – the divine mercury – but here it takes place in a more exalted and perfected state. Therefore, the operation is also called exaltatio when the material is increased and enhanced in power and potency through the mother lion’s Venusian fire. Exaltatio elevates the material by increasing its strength to full manifestation, thus illustrating how the alchemical king and queen, in complete unity and harmony, share the kingdom’s exalted throne.
- Alchemy – the divine work
