Voorwoord van de uitgever 1693

This printer's note by Pieter Schenk, likely from the late 17th century, is a symphony of symbols embedded in the written word. The text itself, presented in both French and Dutch, becomes the primary motif, reflecting the cultural and intellectual exchange of the time. Consider how the act of translation mirrors the alchemical process of transformation. Words, like base metals, are transmuted into something precious through the translator's skill. This process is not just linguistic; it's a transfer of cultural energy. We see this mirroring in other texts across time; the translator acts as a carrier of cultural memory, adapting ancient wisdom. This act of translation can also be viewed through a psychoanalytic lens; the translator is subconsciously shaping and reshaping the source material through personal interpretation, a reflection of collective memory. The dedication to Louis XIV further emphasizes themes of patronage and power, recurring motifs throughout art history. This intertwining of language, translation, and power resonates across time, a continuous cycle of influence and adaptation.