The Alchemist's Experiment Takes Fire

• 1687
• Hendrick Heerschop, Dutch
• 18 3/4 in. W x 22 3/8 in. H
  Oil on canvas laid down on board
• Not on display
• Gift of Fisher Scientific International
• Fisher Collection
• FA 2000.001.276
• No known copyright restrictions

Description

The alchemist's experiment has erupted in a fire, with glass shattering in midair and smoke billowing upward. The alchemist is seated awkwardly in his chair with a startled expression on his face. He is seated near a table, with a red cloth and open book. The alchemist is working at home, as we see in the background an adjoining room where his wife is changing the diaper of a baby.