A Tale of Two Alchemical Courts: Rudolf II and Vilém of Rožmberk

Rudolf II’s court was arguably the most generous and well known haven for alchemists in late 16^th century Europe.  This commitment to alchemical research alienated some of Rudolf II’s subjects and allies, but it also connected him and his court to other courts throughout his Empire and the rest of Europe.  Rudolf II’s main ally, friend, and competitor in the pursuit of alchemical knowledge was Vilém of Rožmberk, a Bohemian magnate.  While there is very clear evidence of Rožmberk’s interest in these endeavors prior to Rudolf II’s ascension as the Holy Roman Emperor, it seems that Rudolf II’s desire to collect alchemists and his generous support of them may have helped to foster a healthy competition between the two men.  This paper will explore the competition and the collaboration between the alchemists in the service of Rudolf II and Vilém of Rožmberk in terms of the conditions of their service, the projects they pursued, and the organization of their laboratories.  It will also examine the ways that these pursuits affected the economy, politics and culture of these two Central European courts.