Robert J. Forbes’ Alchemy and Other Chemical Achievements of the Ancient Orient is a comprehensive exploration of the early chemical knowledge and experimental practices developed in ancient civilizations of the Near and Middle East. The book delves into how ancient cultures—including Mesopotamia, Egypt, Persia, and India—contributed foundational techniques and theories to the science of chemistry long before the advent of modern scientific methodology. Forbes presents a detailed examination of historical records, artifacts, and early texts, tracing the evolution of practical chemistry such as metallurgy, dyeing, glass-making, and medicinal concoctions, and links these to the mystical and philosophical framework of alchemy.

The book outlines how ancient Mesopotamians pioneered basic chemical industries, including the manufacturing of bronze and the development of early distillation methods. Forbes also highlights Egyptian advancements in metallurgy and cosmetics, noting their sophisticated understanding of mineral compounds and their applications. In Persia and India, the text uncovers how alchemical pursuits were intertwined with religious and philosophical systems, with practitioners aiming to achieve not only material transformations—such as turning base metals into gold—but also spiritual purification and enlightenment.

One of the key strengths of Forbes’ work is his effort to separate myth from fact, showing how practical experimentation often underpinned mystical alchemical theories. The book also emphasizes the transmission of chemical knowledge through trade and conquest, which allowed Eastern innovations to influence Greek and later European alchemical traditions. Forbes illustrates this interplay by detailing the role of the Alexandrian school and the eventual synthesis of Eastern and Western knowledge that laid the groundwork for medieval alchemy.

Alchemy and Other Chemical Achievements of the Ancient Orient serves as both a scholarly investigation and a tribute to the ingenuity of early scientists. By shedding light on the technical sophistication and cultural significance of ancient chemistry, Forbes underscores the vital role these early contributions played in the global history of science. The book remains a valuable resource for historians of science, chemists interested in the roots of their discipline, and anyone fascinated by the blend of mysticism and empirical knowledge that characterizes humanity’s first steps toward understanding and manipulating the material world.