Occult. Decoding the visual culture of mysticism, magic and divination

A clear, concise and detailed historical analysis of the eclectic and arcane visual and material culture of the occult.

Focusing on a carefully curated selection of esoteric art and artefacts, this book explains the meaning and mystic power of occult ritual objects and symbols from around the world. The author identifies four key elements of occultism – mysticism, alchemy, magic and divination. Key symbols are identified and examined close up, and key rituals and practices are explained to provide new insights into the philosophies and beliefs of occultists from antiquity to today.

Occult begins with an introduction that clarifies what we mean by ‘occult'.