Transformation of the Psyche: The Symbolic Alchemy of the Spendor Solis

by Joseph L. Henderson, Dyane N. Sherwood

Written by Joseph L. Henderson, one of the first generation of Jungian analysts, and Dyane N. Sherwood, a practising analyst, this book is a striking and unique contribution to the resurgence of interest in alchemy for its way of representing the phenomenology of creative experience.

Transformation of the Psyche is organized around 22 illuminated paintings from the early Renaissance alchemical manuscript the Splendor Solis , and is further illustrated by over 50 colour figures. The images of the Splendor Solis are possibly the most beautiful and evocative alchemical paintings to be found anywhere, and they are widely known to students of alchemy. Jung reproduced several Splendor Solis images in his works, yet prior to this book no one has explored the symbolism of the paintings as a series in relation to the process of depth psychological transformation. This book is the first scholarly study of the paintings in their entirety, and of the mythological and historical allusions contained within the images. Transformation of the Psyche does not simply explain or analyze the pictures, but invites the reader to participate in the creative and transforming process evoked by these images.

Transformation of the Psyche is a truly unique book that will be of immense value and interest to analysts and psychotherapists, as well as scholars of mediaeval and renaissance intellectual history and students of spiritual disciplines.

Genres: Alchemy, Psychology, Spirituality

248 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Mustafa Al-Laylah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to admit - I didn't pick this book up because of the insightful commentary. No, I picked this one up because it was the least expensive, best quality, full-color reproductions of the Splendor Solis plates. But the commentary on each plate is helpful, so I guess you could say I came for the pictures and stayed for the words.

[Warren Icke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dense reading. Requires a knowledge of Jung's Psychology and Alchemy. Worth the work.

[Applefey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This splendid book is by Jungian Psychologist, Dr. Dyane N. Sherwood PhD, and Joseph L. Henderson. 'Transformation of the Psyche: The Symbolic Alchemy of the Splendor Solis' is one of the most beautifully fascinating and brilliantly written books in existence. This book is truly a masterpiece for all time. It is a delight to the eyes and intriguing to the mind. With a treasure like this one, I would recommend getting it on both Kindle and also buying a hardback bound copy of the book for posterity. This book makes a lovely gift for those appreciative of that which is of deeply gorgeous intelligence.

[Ellen Martens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and for me, it made spiritual alchemy much more accessible.