The Athanor - Cabinet de Curiosités

Last updated:
June 3, 2024

WHAT IS AN ATHANOR?
In alchemy, an athanor (Arabic: التنور, at-tannūr) is a furnace used to provide a uniform and constant heat for alchemical digestion. Etymologically, it descends from a number of Arabic texts of the period of the Califate which use the term "al-tannoor" in talismanic alchemy. It is said that the athanor contains the Eternal, Secret and Philosophical Fire.

WHAT IS A CABINET DE CURIOSITÉS?
Cabinets of Curiosities or 'Wonder-Rooms' first appeared in the mid-16th Century and remained popular right up the late 18th Century. Regarded as a microcosm or theatre of the world as well as a theatre of memory, they are the precursors to modern museums. The objects in a Cabinet of Curiosities fall into four categories:

  • NATURALIA: objects from nature
  • ARTIFICALIS: artificial objects created or modified by humans such as antiques, works of art
  • EXOTICA: exotic objects, plants or animals collected from distant places
  • SCIENTIFICA: such as scientific instruments, testaments of man's ability to dominate nature

We are always looking for odd and curious items to collect and display. Have you antique, vintage, weird and original stuffs you do not want anymore? We would be happy to meet them. Donations are also very welcomed.

Mention that you found us on Ventnor Local

The Athanor
17 Pier Street
Ventnor
Isle of Wight
PO38 1ST

07405 346388

Opening Times

Mon:
Closed
Tue:
Closed
Wed:
11am - 4pm
Thu:
11am - 4pm
Fri:
11am - 4pm
Sat:
11am - 4pm
Sun:
Closed

1st October - 31 March:
Thursday to Saturday 11am - 2pm

School Term and Mid-term Holidays:
Monday to Sunday 11am - 4pm

Bank Holidays 11am - 4pm

Other days and times by appointment on
07405-346-388

Location

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