[The symbol of the three reigns of nature: to look further into its significance symbolic system].
Emblem chosen by the Parisian apothecaries, the symbol of the Palm tree, the Snake and Rocks reminds that the pharmaceutical skills concern three reigns of the nature from which arise the constituents of medicines. The hypothesis according to which Nicolas Houel was at the origin of this emblem when he was at the head of the Parisian community in 1556 is advanced, whereas an extension of its symbolic reach is looked for. The analysis of the symbolic senses associated with the snake, with the palm tree and with the rocks directs to a religious interpretation of the symbol in a Christian prospect.
Devaux
Guy
G
D004616:Emblems and Insignia / Q000266:history*; D005602:France; D000077406:History of Pharmacy; D049669:History, 16th Century; D049670:History, 17th Century