Amsterdam
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House of Living Books: The Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica Exhibition and Philosophy Collection

Discover rare historical manuscripts reflecting the interconnectedness of humanity, nature, and the cosmos through Hermetic traditions.

This exhibition highlights a curated selection of rare books and manuscripts from the Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica collection. Visitors gain insight into spiritual movements such as alchemy, mysticism, and the Kabbalah while examining core themes of self-knowledge and nature. The displayed works provide a profound window into the intellectual history of free thinking and personal freedom.

About House of Living Books: The Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica at Embassy of the Free Mind in Amsterdam

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for House of Living Books: The Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica at Embassy of the Free Mind in Amsterdam

Exhibition summary

This exhibition presents a cross-section of the renowned Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica, the heart of the Embassy of the Free Mind. Through rare books and manuscripts, it explores the interconnectedness of humanity, nature, and the cosmos as viewed through the lens of Hermetic philosophy.

Curatorial context

The exhibition 'House of Living Books' offers visitors a curated cross-section of the Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica, a collection that defines the identity of the Embassy of the Free Mind. The library contains over 28,000 books, including 2,300 ancient volumes and 300 manuscripts dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries, many of which are beautifully illustrated. These works provide a unique window into the spiritual tradition where self-knowledge and an understanding of nature are considered essential keys to knowledge of the divine. Visitors can explore themes central to Hermeticism and its related movements, including alchemy, Kabbalah, mysticism, Christian theosophy, Rosicrucianism, and astrology. The exhibition highlights the core principle of 'As above, so below,' reflecting a worldview where humans and the cosmos are inextricably linked. By bringing together these diverse yet connected currents of free thinking, the exhibition illustrates how these ancient ideas have shaped modern understandings of humanity and personal freedom.

Admission and ticket notes

Visitors can access the exhibition by purchasing tickets through the official website. General museum admission is required to view the exhibition; visitors are encouraged to check the official ticketing portal for current availability and entry details.

House of Living Books: The Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for House of Living Books: The Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica at Embassy of the Free Mind in Amsterdam

Venue
Embassy of the Free Mind
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
From Aug 17, 2022
Artist line / attribution
The exhibition showcases historical works and manuscripts from the Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica collection.
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