39r The Final Ascension and the Goal of the Great Work
A dark mountain topped with a red crowned cross surrounded by seven stars rises from the waters of transformation, symbolising the Philosopher’s Stone and the final attainment of wisdom. A nude androgynous figure emerges from the river, representing the reborn alchemist, purified through the trials of Nigredo, Albedo, and Rubedo. This moment of spiritual rebirth signifies transcendence and enlightenment. On the shore, a crowned king in a red robe stands beneath a tall palm tree, extending his sceptre towards the emerging figure. Behind him, two attendants, one in red, the other in blue stand as witnesses.
Sammlung Alchymistischer Schriften (German MS 3), John Rylands Library (Manchester)
