John Dee and Shew Stones: Unveiling Mystical Insights

John Dee, a prominent figure in the Renaissance era, was not only a mathematician, astronomer, and advisor to Queen Elizabeth I but also a practitioner of occult arts. Among his intriguing pursuits was the use of "shew stones," mystical objects employed as tools for communication with angels and spirits.

Dee's fascination with the mystical realms led to his collaboration with Edward Kelley, resulting in the development of Enochian magic. Central to this system were the enigmatic "shew stones," through which Dee sought to unveil hidden truths and receive guidance from celestial entities.

Shew stones, also known as crystal balls or scrying mirrors, were integral to Dee's magical practices. These objects, often of great antiquity, served as mediums to connect with the divine. Dee believed that by gazing into these reflective surfaces, he could establish a communication channel with angels and spirits, gaining insights into the mysteries of the universe.

The rituals involving shew stones were not mere exercises but intricate ceremonies where the mirrors were brought to "life" through rituals involving blood and alcohol. The mysterious and esoteric nature of these practices drew attention, with reports, including one from Queen Elizabeth herself, documenting the wonders and terrors glimpsed in the reflective surfaces.

One notable shew stone associated with Dee is a highly polished obsidian glass circle currently held by the British Museum. Originating from Mexico, where obsidian glass was sacred to the Aztec god of divination and sorcery, Tezcatlipoca, the journey of this mirror into Dee's possession remains shrouded in mystery.

Following Dee's death in 1608, his possessions, including his extensive library and scrying mirrors, were scattered. The fate of these mystical objects was diverse, and one such mirror found its way into the possession of Sir Horace Walpole, a key figure in the Gothic literary movement. Walpole, known for his novel "The Castle of Otranto," donated the mirror to the British Museum, labeling it "The Black Stones, into which Dr. Dee used to call his spirits."

In essence, Dee's exploration of shew stones represents a unique intersection of science, mysticism, and the occult during the Renaissance. His use of these reflective mediums reflects a quest for knowledge that transcended conventional boundaries, delving into the supernatural to unravel the mysteries of existence. The legacy of John Dee and his shew stones continues to captivate and intrigue, offering a glimpse into the enigmatic world where the material and spiritual realms converge.