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Alchemical Hermeticism

The Secret Teachings of Marco Daffi on Initiation

David Pantano author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Inner Traditions Bear and Company

Publishing:27th Feb '25

£35.00

This title is due to be published on 27th February, and will be despatched as soon as possible.

Alchemical Hermeticism cover

An in-depth investigation into the Alchemical-Hermetic practices of Marco Daffi

• Presents Daffi’s writings on unique and unusual experiences from five decades of alchemical and hermetic practice, available for the first time in English

• Offers a view of Daffi’s “Inner Laboratory” and his pioneering investigations into consciousness, past-life regression, Hermetic healing, and divination

• Offers a psychological portrait of Daffi through writings by initiates, artists, and scholars who knew or had firsthand knowledge of the Baron

Following the path set by renowned alchemist Giuliano Kremmerz, Marco Daffi was one of the most interesting and controversial protagonists of magical Hermeticism in the 20th century, a master initiate who illuminated the more esoteric aspects of Hermetic practice in terms of initiation, gnosis, eros, divination, and consciousness.

In this comprehensive look at the man born Baron Ricciardo Ricciardelli, yet better known by his spiritual name of Marco Daffi, historian and researcher David Pantano presents Daffi’s writings on some of the most unique and unusual topics within alchemical Hermeticism, available for the first time in English.

Through his visionary writings, Daffi elucidates firsthand accounts of "initiatory experience" and the inner visions of Hermetic practices, supported by relevant experiential praxis. Readers are able to enter Daffi’s "Inner Laboratory" and experience his pioneering investigations into the numinal or interdimensional aspects of consciousness. Daffi details the descensus ad inferno he took into the dark cavernous recesses of past-life regression for purposes of Hermetic healing. His writings also reveal his practical applications of oracular-modes of consciousness, especially by exercising his considerable mediumistic capabilities.

Exploring the more human side of Daffi that influenced his work, Pantano shares biographical information and writings from initiates, artists, and scholars who knew of the Baron. These never-before-translated writings provide context and additional depth for the insights that permeate Daffi’s alchemical and magical work and philosophy. Pantano also includes Daffi’s own account of the infamous "Trial of the Magus," which pitted him against the grandson of his teacher, Giuliano Kremmerz, at the height of Italy’s fascist era.

Providing an inside view of the magus at work, a glimpse into the far-reaching spiritual horizon of a man who explored the depths of the astral realm and the most occult aspects of...

“David Pantano is a living treasure! His entire body of work is a boon to scholarship. His new book, best described as a veritable gem of elegant erudition, reveals in extraordinary detail the compelling, mysterious thought and bizarre life of one of the most peculiar figures of 20th-century Italian Hermeticism.” * Stanislas Klossowski De Rola, widely known as “Prince Stash,” and author of The Golden G *
“Pantano has done Hermeticists of every stamp an immense service by making Daffi’s hitherto rare work accessible and placing it and him in the context of other Hermetic and magical currents of the early 20th century.” * Gary Lachman, author of Maurice Nicoll *
“Alchemical Hermeticism is historically rich, philosophically profound, and a significant contribution to the corpus of modern alchemical and Hermetic literature. Pantano’s writing is scholarly yet highly readable and contains penetrating insights into the collected primary materials. Here is the kind of scholarship that synthesizes biography, philosophical theory, and practical esotericism into a symphonic whole, and for that I consider it one of the most important releases of the year.” * Ike Baker, author of A Formless Fire *
“Alchemical Hermeticism, skillfully researched and translated, offers a captivating glimpse into the Hermetic and alchemical world of Marco Daffi. Pantano presents Daffi’s insightful essays and enlightening letters, along with an illuminating biography of this key Hermetic figure of the twentieth century. Daffi’s unique perspective on Hermetic initiation promises to inspire, stimulate the imagination, and guide all dedicated seekers of the Great Work.” * Marlene Seven Bremner, author of Hermetic Philosophy and Creative Alchemy *
“A groundbreaking exploration of spiritual transformation and hidden wisdom. Guiding readers through the mysterious path of initiation, David Pantano masterfully uncovers the convergence of ancient mysteries and the alchemist’s quest for divine perfection. With exceptional scholarship, Pantano brings to light the teachings of Marco Daffi, offering readers an unparalleled journey into the heart of mystical traditions.” * Gwendolyn Taunton, author of The Path of Shadows *
“Pantano’s meticulous presentation of the Italic Hermetic traditions continues its upward trajectory with the addition of Alchemical Hermeticism. Here the reader is immersed in some of the deepest—and I say this in all seriousness—once most secret aspects of Hermetic initiation. Daffi, like Kremmerz, is not an easy friend and guide for the journey but certainly a very reliable one. Drink slowly and deeply from these pages and join the ranks of the heroes.” * Mark Stavish, author of The Path of Freemasonry *
“What a fascinating book! David Pantano is to be commended for producing such an in-depth study of this esoteric pioneer. I particularly enjoyed the insights afforded by the biographical details of Ricciardelli’s life, which serve to anchor the Baron’s spiritual alter ego, Marco Daffi, in actuality.” * Gomery Kimber, author of The Nazi Alchemist *
“A gem for serious practitioners as well as for investigators of this occult knowledge, and a treasure trove of insights that opens a new door into the vast world of Italian and European occultism and magic from a Hermetic perspective. Pantano has once again made a precious contribution to the rediscovery of these authors and their influence on the world of the occult." * Rudolf Berger, founder and host of Thoth-Hermes podcast *
“This book marks a significant advance in introducing the English-speaking world to the influential Italian Hermeticist Giuliano Kremmerz and the highly controversial milieu of Italian occultism.” * Cristian Guzzo, editor and translator of Giuliano Kremmerz’s book Angels and Demons of Love *
“Pantano has shone a spotlight on the immense depth and importance of Hermeticism as it was practiced in what can be called its homeland. Daffi’s presentation of the use of symbols for inner and outer transformation places his Hermetic view squarely in the domain of initiatory practices, not simply limiting it to psychological insights.” * John R. White, Ph.D., coeditor of Jungian Analysis in a World on Fire *

ISBN: 9781644119976

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 550g

352 pages