Clypeus - 1969 - Vol 6 No 6

Magazine Overview

Title: Clypeus
Subtitle: Nuove Frontiere della Scienza (New Frontiers of Science)
Issue: Number 6, Volume VI
Date: 2nd semester, 1969
Publisher: Gianni Settimo, Torino, Italy
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of Clypeus delves into a variety of intriguing topics, blending botany, ancient esoteric texts, and speculative science.

Plants from Other Worlds

The article "Piante da Altro Mondo" (Plants from Other Worlds) by Sandro LOVARI explores the fascinating and often anomalous world of botany. It highlights plants with extraordinary properties, including those found along the Rio delle Amazzoni, such as the Muirapinima (Brosimum guaianense) with its vibrant red-orange wood, and the Uà-Uassù (Orbignya speciosa), a giant palm tree. The article also discusses the mysterious Sohnregia excelsa, a palm that reaches twenty meters in height and flowers only once before dying. A particularly intriguing account, attributed to Colonel Percival H. Fawcett, describes an English traveler in Peru who encountered a plant whose secreted liquid could soften stones, purportedly used by the Incas to shape building materials. The article then shifts to Madagascar, described as a paradise for strange plants. It details a large tree with black bark and elastic wood, which has eluded scientific classification due to the difficulty in obtaining its seeds. Another Madagascan plant, Didierea madagascariensis, is noted for creating fragrant oases and possessing leaves and needles with a pine-like scent. The article also touches upon the unique life cycle of these plants, which do not follow seasonal rhythms. The common lichen is presented as a symbiotic organism, a partnership between fungi and algae, capable of surviving extreme conditions. Finally, the Welwitschia (Tumboa) mirabilis from Southwest Africa and Angola is described as a plant that prefers hot, humid climates, with a low-lying, massive stem and two large cotyledonary leaves that grow continuously. The article notes its unique self-nourishing process and pollination by a specific type of insect.

The Book of Enoch

The second major section, "Il 'Libro di Enoch'" (The 'Book of Enoch') by Solas BONCOMPAGNI, provides an in-depth analysis of this ancient text. The article addresses the common perception of the Book of Enoch as a compilation and discusses its historical consideration by early Christians. It notes that the book, dated to around 130 BC, was originally written in Aramaic and is divided into five distinct parts: "The Fall of the Angels and the Ascension of Enoch," "The Book of Parables," "The Book of the Changes of the Heavenly Luminaries," "The Book of Dreams," and "The Book of Exhortation and the Malediction." The article summarizes the content of each section, detailing the narrative of fallen angels, their union with human women, the birth of giants, and the subsequent divine judgment. It highlights Enoch's visions of the celestial realms, the abyss of fire, and the dwelling places of the dead. The text also explores Enoch's accounts of the laws governing celestial bodies and the messianic era. The author points out that while the book has been influential, its structure is often seen as disjointed, suggesting it may be a collection of earlier works. The article confirms the existence of the Book of Enoch through numerous citations in later texts, noting that Enoc is sometimes described as a father of astrology with knowledge gained from angels. It references the "Book of Jubilees" and the "Apocalypse of Baruch" as sources that cite Enoch. The article concludes by stating that while the original text is lost, the Ethiopian version appears to be the most complete, with twenty-six manuscripts existing in major European libraries.

Notes and Connections

A section of "Note Varie" (Various Notes) provides supplementary information and context. Note 1 mentions the discovery of a giant's skeleton in England in 1171. Note 3 connects the Essenes' view of stars as living spirits to personification. Note 9 discusses the theories of Professor Ernesto Micaelles (Ernesto Thayaht) and Pietro Gaspa, who proposed that UFO phenomena might be attributed to superior intelligences, aligning with ancient "vigilanti" (watchers) mentioned in Enochian texts. The notes also provide references to various biblical and apocryphal texts, as well as scholarly works.

Illustrations

The magazine includes several illustrations. The cover features a striking drawing of a complex, alien-like robot. Inside, there are illustrations depicting symbolic representations, including an archangel or cherub with solar symbols and griffins, and another stylized depiction of an archangel or cherub with wings resembling scales, possibly referencing Oannes, the Babylonian fish-god. Another illustration shows a stylized representation of the Welwitschia plant.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Clypeus positions itself as a publication exploring "New Frontiers of Science." The magazine consistently engages with topics that lie at the intersection of the known and the unknown, including anomalous botanical phenomena, ancient esoteric knowledge, and speculative theories about extraterrestrial or supernatural influences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting intriguing information and ancient texts like the Book of Enoch as potentially relevant to understanding modern mysteries, including UFOs. There is a clear interest in connecting historical accounts and mystical traditions with contemporary scientific and paranormal investigations, suggesting a belief that ancient wisdom may hold keys to understanding phenomena that challenge conventional science. The magazine encourages readers to consider unconventional explanations and to explore the limits of current knowledge.

This issue of the magazine, identified by page numbers ranging from 161 to 170, features a diverse range of articles covering philosophical, ufological, historical, and philatelic topics. The primary articles include 'LE DUE MISERIE' by Remo FEDI, a piece on the cessation of US Air Force UFO investigations, an extensive analysis of Egyptian hieroglyphic writing, and a column on space philately.

LE DUE MISERIE by Remo FEDI

Remo FEDI's article, 'LE DUE MISERIE' (The Two Miseries), explores the concepts of spiritual and material wealth and poverty. FEDI posits that while material wealth is often pursued, it ultimately leads to a greater moral and spiritual poverty. He contrasts this with spiritual richness, which he suggests is more profound and less common. The article references figures like Jesus Christ and Buddha as examples of those who understood the limitations of material wealth and the importance of inner richness. FEDI argues that a true understanding of life requires looking beyond immediate material satisfaction and considering a spiritual finality.

End of UFO Investigations

A significant news item reports on the official end of the US Air Force's investigations into UFO (Unidentified Flying Objects) sightings. Dated December 17, 1969, an official certificate signed by Secretary of the Air Force Robert C. Seamans declared the closure of the 'blue book,' which had meticulously recorded and annotated UFO appearances for twenty-two years. The report states that the topic no longer holds interest for security or science, noting a significant decrease in reported sightings from 1,501 in 1952 to just 146 in the current year (1969).

Other Articles and Columns

Altri Esseri Viventi? (Are there other living beings?)

This section compiles references to articles published in various Italian periodicals concerning UFOs and extraterrestrial life. It lists articles from 'Il polso,' 'L'Europeo,' and 'Il Messaggero,' including one by Roberto Cervellati. Another article mentioned is from 'OROSCOPO' by Pier Carpi, which discusses unknown science and flying saucers. A 'fantastic' article by Franco Varetto from 'Riflesso 1' titled 'COSI' MORI' L'UOMO CHE INVENTO' I "DISCHI VOLANTI"' (How the man who invented 'flying saucers' died) is also highlighted.

IN ORBITA CON I FRANCOBOLLI (In Orbit with Stamps)

Curated by Phil ASTER, this column focuses on space philately. It notes the continued 'boom' in space-themed stamps throughout 1970, driven by the Apollo program and various postal administrations. The article praises the United States for not issuing more space stamps after the Moon landing, suggesting a desire not to bore collectors, while also commending other postal administrations for issuing attractive and reasonably priced series. The Bhutanese series commemorating the Moon landing, featuring 3D lenticular printing, is particularly highlighted for its visual appeal and affordability.

Elementi di tipologia egiziana (Elements of Egyptian Typology)

This extensive section, presented as a lecture by Prof. Silvio Curto from April 4, 1964, and published by the Associazione Culturale Progresso Grafico in Turin in 1984, delves into the origins and development of Egyptian hieroglyphic writing. Curto explains that writing emerged almost simultaneously in Sumeria and Egypt. He contrasts the Sumerian technique of using a stylus on clay tablets with the Egyptian method of carving on stone. The article details how Egyptian hieroglyphs, initially figurative, evolved into a system that symbolized speech rather than direct representation. It explains the classification of hieroglyphic signs, including those representing consonants, ideograms, and determinatives. The development of the Egyptian writing system, its adaptation to papyrus, and the emergence of cursive scripts like hieratic and demotic are discussed. The section also touches upon the aesthetic qualities and legibility of Egyptian writing, comparing it favorably to other ancient scripts like Greek and Latin. It concludes with an example of ancient Egyptian poetry, a lament about life and death, presented alongside its hieroglyphic and translated text.

Other Mentions

The issue also includes brief mentions of books such as "ESISTONO DAVVE RO I DISCHI VOLANTI?" by Mario Caddeo, "IL RITORNO DELLE CIVILTA' PERDUTE" by Quize Cardinale, and "IL LIBRO DEI SEGRETI TRADITI" by Robert Charroux. A tribute is paid to the scientific popularizer Willy Ley, who passed away at the age of 63.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to maintain an interest in the philosophical and spiritual aspects of life, contrasting them with materialism. There is a clear focus on unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, though the reporting on the US Air Force's decision suggests a shift in the official stance on the subject. The historical and cultural sections, such as the detailed analysis of Egyptian writing, indicate a commitment to providing in-depth educational content. The philately column suggests an interest in the intersection of technology, history, and popular culture.

This document is a catalog from "CLYPEUS libri," specializing in science fiction and related genres. It functions as a sales list for rare and new books, with a focus on "Fantascienza" (Science Fiction), "Esobiologia," "Dischi volanti" (Flying Saucers), and "Astronautica."

Book Catalog Listings

The catalog is divided into sections, with the first page focusing on "Fantascienza." It presents a numbered list of books with detailed descriptions and prices:

• 1-2. H.G. Wells - La macchina del tempo (The Time Machine): Two editions listed from Milan, 1924, with different bindings and prices (£6,000 and £4,000).
• 3. D.V. Duff - The man from outer space: London, 1954, 222 pages with illustrations, priced at £1,500.
• 4. L.P. Hartley - Facial Justice: London, 1966, 220 pages, priced at £500.
• 5. P. Benoit - L'Atlantide: Paris, 1920, 316 pages, priced at £1,500.
• 6. L.H. Steyner - La rivolta dei Jeols: Listed as part of "Galassia" magazine (Udine, n°5/1957), 144 pages, priced at £1,000, noted as "in new condition."
• 7. E. Stern - Il cratere di Satana: Also from "Galassia" magazine (Udine, n°4/1957), 144 pages, described as "Rare," priced at £1,000.
• 8. L.R. Johannis - C'era una volta un pianeta (Once Upon a Time There Was a Planet): From "Urania" magazine (n°41/1954), 128 pages, recommended by Clypeus, "RARE," priced at £1,500.
• 9. L.R. Johannis - Quando ero "aborigeno" (When I Was "Aboriginal"): From "Urania" magazine (n°110/1955), 127 pages, "RARE," priced at £1,500.
• 10. Zavattini, Pedrocchi, and Scolari - Saturno contro la Terra (Saturn Against the Earth): A collection of seven episodes published in "Almanacco Linus 1969," 175 pages. Described as "In new condition" and "Sold out by the publisher for about a year," priced at £5,000.
• 11. ? ? ? - Venus: Described as "science fiction comics for adults." The first five episodes are available from February to June 1966, priced at £1,000.

The second page continues the catalog under the heading "(Esobiologia, Dischi volanti, Astronautica, Astronomia)":

• 12. D.E. Keyhoe - La verità sui dischi volanti (The Truth About Flying Saucers): Milan, 1954, 367 pages, priced at £3,500.
• 13. C.G. Jung - Su cose che si vedono in cielo (On Things Seen in the Sky): Milan, 1960, priced at £2,500.
• 14. Alessandri-Masi - Altri mondi abitati (?): Assisi, 1965, 226 pages with illustrations, priced at £1,200.
• 15. H. Oberth - Uomini nello spazio (Men in Space): Milan, 1957, 354 pages with numerous illustrations, green cloth binding, priced at £2,000.
• 16. C.C. Troebst - Assalto alla Luna (Assault on the Moon): Florence, 1959, 267 pages with numerous photographs, blue cloth binding, priced at £2,000.
• 17. H. Cuny - L'astronautica (Astronautics): Rome, 1962, 238 pages with illustrations, paperback, priced at £1,000.
• 18. D. Papp - Più in là del Sole (Further Than the Sun): Milan, 1949, 184 pages with photographs, priced at £2,500.
• 19. D. Papp - Chi vive sulle stelle? (Who Lives Among the Stars?): Milan, 1937, 350 pages with photographs, priced at £3,000.
• 20. A. Sternperld - I satelliti artificiali (Artificial Satellites): Rome, 1955, 200 pages, paperback, 5 plates and illustrations, priced at £1,500.
• 21. A. Humboldt - Cosmos: Venice, 1860. A four-volume set in perfect condition, bound in two volumes of extra-strong cloth with gold lettering on the spine. Described as "An item not easy to find in good condition," priced at £8,000.
• 22. P. Voliels - Guida alla Luna (Guide to the Moon): Milan, 1959, 215 pages with photographs and illustrations, "Sold out," priced at £500.
• 23. L. Gussalli - Si può già tentare un viaggio dalla terra alla luna? (Can We Already Attempt a Journey from Earth to the Moon?): Milan, 1923, 100 pages, illustrated, priced at £4,000.
• 24. G. Auletta - Negli spazi abbiamo fratelli? (Do We Have Brothers in Space?): Turin, 1959, 27 pages, priced at £100.
• 25. S. Arrhenius - Il divenire dei mondi (The Becoming of Worlds): Milan, 1908, 192 pages and 60 illustrations. Described as a "Treatise on Exobiology recommended by Clypeus and not easy to find," priced at £4,000.
• 26. G. Bennet - Sguardi nell'ignoto (Glances into the Unknown): Milan, 1957, 347 pages. "One chapter is dedicated to flying saucers," priced at £3,000.

Advertisements and Other Information

Page 3 contains advertisements and contact information:

• CYPEUS: Located at P. O. BOX 604 - 10100 TORINO - ITALY, specializing in "NUOVE FRONTIERE DELLA SCIENZA" (New Frontiers of Science).
• LIBRERIA CARTOLERIA L. A. MURATORI: Located at CORSO BELGIO 23 - 10153 TORINO, with telephone number 877.488.
• riflesso 1: A monthly opinion magazine. A notice indicates that if the adjacent box is marked, the subscription is expired.
• SPESE POSTALI (Postage Costs): A note requests readers to include stamps for replies due to high correspondence costs.
• BUFORA (British UFO Research Association): Provides journal and bulletin details, directed by J. Cleary-Baker, with an address in Winchester, England.
• CIEL INSOLITE: A specialized worldwide diffusion magazine on flying saucers, with free documentation available from U.G.E.F. in Valence, France.
• PHENOMENES SPATIAUX: A magazine directed by René Fouéré, with an address in Paris, France.

Page 2 also mentions "desiderata," a weekly for bibliophiles, edited by Edoardo Marini from Trieste.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The catalog clearly indicates Clypeus libri's focus on speculative fiction and scientific inquiry, particularly concerning space, extraterrestrial life, and unexplained phenomena like flying saucers. The emphasis on "rare," "out-of-print," and "new condition" items suggests a business catering to collectors and enthusiasts of these genres. The inclusion of related magazines and research associations reinforces this niche focus. The editorial stance, inferred from the curated selection and descriptions, is one of promoting and making accessible significant works within the science fiction and ufology communities.