The Founder of Khazar University and the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Trustees Prof. Hamlet Isakhanli published a new book called “Alchemy: Science, Art and Mysticism” (in Azerbaijani: Əlkimya: Elm, Sənət və Mistika) which talks about the history of science. In the book, the author dives into the world history of alchemy while focusing on Egypt, which is considered the main candidate to be the homeland of alchemy, and then Mesopotamia, Greek and Roman civilization, the periods when China and Islam were hegemons, and finally, the Europe of the Middle Ages. Certain generalizations have been made based on a comparative analysis, and similarities and differences have been noted. The relations between Eastern and Western cultures

have been contemplated through the lens of the alchemy. There are discussions on the scientific and technological aspects of alchemy, as well as economic and commercial prospects, physical and chemical properties of gold and silver, moral and social facets, endeavors to turn metals into silver and gold, as well as the search for elixirs that can bring rejuvenation and immortality, also on people who led the creative activities in these areas.

When appropriate, the closely related subjects to alchemy, such as medicine, pharmacology and botany, metals and minerals, philosophy and mystery, have been scrutinized. The different myths and legends, travels and wars, books and encyclopedias have been discussed. The events encompassing the major or base elements, especially, their insufficiency, along with the substances regarded as the soul of alchemy like mercury, sulfur, and salt, are in the spotlight.

Written in a comprehensible language, this monography is reckoned to be for specialists, students and a wide audience of readers.