Parkins, John

Extracts from works on astrological medicine. Rites and ceremonies of magic in all operations of the Chrystal [etc.]. Illustrated with pen-drawn astrological figures, horoscopes, sigils, and diagrams, one with a volvelle. A large part of the text is in short-hand; a key to which is included, from Parkins 'Key to the Wiseman's Crown' 1816. There are additions by other hands, some in pencil. The medical-astrological portion of the MS. is taken from the works of William Salmon [1644-1713], here called 'Great Salmon'. On p. 36 is the beginning of an excerpt from the anonymous 'An astrological inspection and examination of several influences, aspects ... conflagrations and fatal accidents which are fully declared in the Heavens in the year 1797. By a Young Lady'. At the end 'Wrote from a copy on Thursday, December 7th 1797'. The magical portion of the MS. is copied from Francis Barrett's 'Magus', 1801. The date 1829 is found on the penultimate leaf.

1797-1829

1 volume 106 pp. + 116 ll. 4to. 20 × 151/2 cm. Original vellum binding, with roughly sewn colour-patterned tapestry cover. Some leaves are wanting at the beginning and at the end, some have been torn out, and others mutilated. Parts of the text foxed.

Purchased 1911.

Database description transcribed from S.A.J. Moorat, Catalogue of Western Manuscripts on Medicine and Science in the Wellcome Historical Medical Library (London: Wellcome Institute for the History of Medicine, 1962-1973).