After an engraving designed by Peter Bruegel, executed by Philippe Galle, and published by Hieronymus Cock in Antwerp, 1558.
The desperate alchemist is encouraged by folly (a figure wearing a fool's cap fans the flames of madness) toward impossible goals. His beliefs are shown by thescholar at the lectern to be "all rubbish" ("Alghe Mist"). His wife and children are hungry and penniless. The alchemist's real future is depicted outside the window of time as he and his family are received at the poorhouse.

Open edition replica print. Black ink only.