Clypeus - 1970 - Vol 7 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: CLYPEUS
Issue: 27
Volume: VII
Date: Anno VII° - N° 1 (April 1964)
Publisher: CLYPEUS
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Cover Headline: IL MISTERO DEI RE MAGI (The Mystery of the Magi)

This issue of "CLYPEUS" presents a rich tapestry of articles exploring historical mysteries, religious studies, and ancient mythology, with a particular focus on the Three Magi and the nature of angels. The magazine, published in Italy, aims to explore "New Frontiers of Science" through a historical and clipeo-historical lens.

The Mystery of the Three Magi

The lead article, "Il Mistero dei Re Magi" (The Mystery of the Magi) by Rory Anderson, delves into the enduring enigma surrounding these biblical figures. Despite centuries of study and research, their identities, origins, final resting places, and even the exact nature of their journey remain shrouded in mystery. The article references the Gospel of Matthew, which mentions their visit to adore the infant Jesus, guided by a star, and their offerings of gold, incense, and myrrh. However, the Gospels provide little detail about their lineage or status, with scholars suggesting they might have been wise men, dignitaries, or even kings from Arabia or Mesopotamia. The tradition of them being three in number, named Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, with Balthazar being of black ethnicity, is also discussed, possibly symbolizing the inclusion of a 'third world' or a 'neglected race' among the first adorers of Christ.

The article extensively discusses the claim that the Magi are buried in Cologne, Germany. It traces the historical journey of their relics, which arrived in Milan in the 6th century and were housed in Sant'Eustorgio. When Emperor Frederick Barbarossa conquered Milan in 1162, his chancellor, Archbishop Rainald von Dassel of Cologne, was granted the right to transport these precious relics. The journey from Pavia in June 1162, with the relics of martyrs Nabore and Felice also in tow, was long and circuitous, eventually reaching Cologne on July 23, 1164. The welcome in Cologne was grand, with the relics placed in the center of the Duomo. The article notes that an opera by Giovanni da Hildesheim, written between 1364 and 1375, helped popularize the story of the relics after the invention of printing, leading to numerous pilgrimages to Cologne.

Confraternities dedicated to the Magi flourished, and in 1654, the Jesuit Hermann Cronbach published a three-volume work on their history. Art also played a role in spreading devotion, with a famous clock in the Cologne Cathedral (now gone) depicting the Magi. The article highlights the poetic verses found in litanies honoring the Magi, emphasizing their virtues and their journey. It also touches upon the city of Cologne's historical debt to the Magi, with their image appearing in the city's coat of arms since 1288 and on coins after Emperor Frederick III granted the city the right to mint money in 1474. However, the article concludes by stating that there is no definitive historical proof for the burial of the Magi in Cologne's Duomo, suggesting that the legend, while deeply ingrained, lacks concrete evidence.

Angels: Nature, Roles, and the Fall

Solas Boncompagni contributes an extensive piece titled "Chi Sono Gli Angeli?" (Who Are the Angels?), which serves as an encyclopedia entry exploring the multifaceted nature of angels. The article begins by referencing the 'fall' myth, particularly the aspect related to the initial human pair (Adam and Eve), but quickly shifts to the more prevalent myth of the "fallen angels" or "rebellious watchers," as described in the Ethiopian version of the "Book of Enoch." The article aims to provide essential information about angels, drawing from various sources.

The term "angel" is explained as originating from the Latin "angelus," derived from the Greek "angelos," meaning "messenger." This highlights their primary function as intermediaries between the divine and humanity. The concept of celestial messengers predates Christianity, appearing in various mythologies with figures like Hermes, Mercury, and Oannes, often referred to as "good spirits." The article notes that early Christian thinkers like Origen and Methodius believed that ancient philosophies and theosophies were influenced by angels, and that those living before the Great Flood had familiarity with them.

The nature of angels is discussed, with the Bible attributing to them a nobler and more elevated status than humans. Their form and structure are described as uncertain. Created in a state of happiness and grace, but not supernatural beatitude, they possessed free will, which accounts for the myth of the fallen angels. It is suggested that the creation of angels and their subsequent fall occurred before the creation of humans, as Eve was tempted by a fallen angel. Ancient philosophers viewed angels as independent beings in the governance of the world. The distinction between good angels, who seek human salvation, and evil angels, who desire human perdition, is noted. Brunetto Latini's "Il Tesoro" is cited, stating that God compels evil angels to limit their malevolence, while good angels are sent to aid humans, leading to the concept of a guardian angel.

The article mentions that the concept of a guardian angel has ancient roots, appearing in Egyptian, Sumerian, Assyrian-Babylonian, and Persian art, and was later re-evaluated by Christian figures like Philo, Origen, and Matthew. The division of angels into good and evil finds its origins in "Horo" and his defenders, and "Seth" and his followers. The article acknowledges that detailing every manifestation of angels would be extensive, but it quotes a description from the "Apocalypse of Peter," describing two men whose luminous garments and radiant faces were beyond earthly comparison, their crowns like rainbows, and their eyes shining like the morning star.

Angels are not always depicted as human-like; they often appear shrouded in something beyond human comprehension. Their manifestations have sometimes been described as terrifying, and their presence is linked to divine revelations. S. Ilario of Poitiers is quoted describing "burning torches, dazzling fires, deafening thunder" that accompany angelic ministry.

The question of angels' sex is also debated. Siamese mythology admits ambisexual angels who could procreate, but their offspring were not sanctified. This is linked to the curse of the Giants, born from illicit relations between fallen angels and human daughters. Rabbinic mythology categorizes angels into seven orders, with the highest being the most noble. The concept of angels creating each other is also mentioned, echoing early Egyptian dynastic myths. The article notes that Dante's structure in his Divine Comedy reflects this mythology.

Persian traditions distinguish a category of "transport angels" responsible for preserving the bodies of notable figures after death. Examples include Noah, Elijah, Enoch, and Baruch. Angels are also described as transporting the Virgin Mary to paradise on "chariots of fire" and assisting in Isaiah's ascension.

These "transport angels" are frequently depicted in medieval and Renaissance art, guiding or pulling celestial vehicles like clouds, chariots, "incandescent wheels in the sky," thrones, and semi-ellipsoidal structures, often associated with ascensions or symbolic visions. The article references Roberto Pinotti's article in "CLYPEUS" about extraterrestrials, which included illustrations of these angelic depictions.

The article briefly mentions the hierarchies of angels from the Ethiopian Book of Enoch but deems them less relevant to the current research. It highlights the cherubim, whose name is linked to the Egyptian "cherub" (a symbolic figure with many wings and eyes), suggesting that figures like Moses and Ezekiel might have drawn inspiration from Egyptian mythology.

Returning to the "fall of the rebels" narrative from Enoch, the article details how, after humans multiplied, beautiful daughters of men attracted the angels. Led by Semyaza, the angels swore an oath to take human wives and father children. They descended upon Mount Hermon and taught humans various arts, including cosmetics, metallurgy, and the use of weapons (swords, javelots, armor). Azazel taught men to make weapons and ornaments, while others taught magic, agriculture, enchantments, astrology, and the interpretation of stars and seasons. This led to human pride and corruption.

The article notes that the appearance of strange jewelry, similar to a wristwatch, on figures like Gilgamesh and androgynous genies suggests a historical revolution where humanity rapidly advanced through experiences not acquired through slow evolution. This rapid progress, driven by the corruption of the angels, led to a significant increase in human depravity.

Bibliographical Notes and Illustrations

The article includes extensive bibliographical notes, citing various ancient texts, theological works, and dictionaries. It also features several illustrations:

• Illustration n° 1: Depicts a vision similar to a luminous throne ascending into the sky, containing symbolic figures, identified as Ezekiel VII, 1,2, from the Vatican Library.
• Illustration n° 2: A faithful reproduction of a strange bracelet, shown front and back, worn by the Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian hero Gilgamesh and by certain androgynous genies. This is linked to the rapid advancement of humanity.
• Illustration n° 3: A detail from a vase painting of the Ruvo style (4th century BC), preserved in the Etruscan Gregorian Museum of the Vatican. It shows an angel descending, distributing objects to humans, and is associated with the Babylonian hymn "INNO A SAMAS DIO DEL SOLE" (Hymn to Shamash, God of the Sun).

Other Articles and Sections

• "Ritagli" (Clippings): A section featuring various short pieces, including "Chi cerca trova" (He who seeks finds), "Guardare il cielo" (Looking at the sky), and "Roba da chiodi" (Nail stuff).
• "Clypeus libri" (Clypeus Books): A section dedicated to book reviews or mentions.
• Subscription Information: Details on how to obtain sample copies, subscriptions, and correspondence are provided in Italian, French, and German, directing inquiries to Gianni V. Settimo in Turin, Italy. The magazine states it does not accept paid subscriptions but offers a year's free issues in exchange for a 2,500 lire annual fee for general expenses and the publication of up to ten free classified ads.
• Legal Information: The magazine is authorized by the Tribunal of Turin, with all rights reserved. Opinions expressed are those of the authors.
• Correspondence: Clypeus is a correspondent for "Société pour la diffusion de la Presse" (SODIP) in Brussels, Belgium.
• "Ancora una Premessa" (Another Premise): Solas Boncompagni clarifies that for articles concerning Hebrew literature, they will limit themselves to citing passages from religious works, including apocryphal ones, with historical, literary, and artistic comparisons, focusing exclusively on external considerations. They state that exegesis of these religious texts is beyond their competence and falls under ecclesiastical jurisdiction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "CLYPEUS" revolve around ancient mysteries, religious history, mythology, and the intersection of these with art and potential extraterrestrial influences. The editorial stance appears to be one of historical inquiry, presenting diverse perspectives and ancient texts, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of some topics. The magazine seems to encourage readers to engage with these subjects through its subscription model, which includes the publication of personal ads, suggesting a community-oriented approach. The focus on "clipeo-historical research" indicates a methodology that draws from historical accounts, artistic representations, and mythological narratives to explore phenomena that might be interpreted as precursors to modern UFO/UAP discussions or simply as fascinating historical and cultural phenomena.

This issue of "In Orbita Con I Francobolli" (In Orbit With Stamps), a special section curated by Phil Aster, delves into the fascinating intersection of philately, space exploration, and speculative science. Published in January 1962, it explores themes ranging from the commercialization of space-themed stamps to profound philosophical questions about life beyond Earth.

Thematic Articles

The Business of Space Stamps

The lead article, "In Orbita Con I Francobolli," critiques the proliferation of space-themed stamps, particularly highlighting a recent series from Somalia. The author expresses disappointment that philately is being exploited solely for financial gain, with little regard for genuine numismatic or historical value. The Somali series, ordered before the moon landing, was later sold as 'unissued' at inflated prices, drawing parallels to speculative emissions from Arab states. The article notes that Italy, surprisingly, has not yet issued stamps commemorating the moon landing, attributing this partly to the postal service's focus on other commemorative issues, such as one for Erasmo da Narni (Gattamelata).

Christian Huygens on Planetary Habitability

An extensive piece titled "Opinioni di Christian Huygens su l'abitabilità dei pianeti" (Opinions of Christian Huygens on the Habitability of Planets) by Marino Cecconi, revisits the groundbreaking theories of the 17th-century scientist. Huygens, a contemporary of Newton, argued for the plurality of worlds, suggesting that planets, like Earth, could harbor life. The article details Huygens' reasoning, which was based on the Copernican system, the uniformity of natural laws across celestial bodies, and analogies drawn from Earth's features, such as mountains and polar ice caps observed on the Moon and Mars. Huygens posited that if life existed on Earth, it was logical to assume its presence on other planets, with variations in form and complexity.

Huygens' treatise, "Nouveau Traité de la Pluralité des Mondes," is discussed, including his responses to theological objections and his belief that the universe's vastness implies a divine plan extending beyond human comprehension. The article contrasts Huygens' optimistic view with modern astronomical skepticism, which points to extreme temperatures, atmospheric compositions, and lack of essential elements like oxygen and liquid water as significant barriers to life on most planets.

Soviet Plans for Extraterrestrial Contact

A news brief from Moscow reports that the Soviet Union, through the "Literaturnaia Gazeta," intended to establish contact with extraterrestrial civilizations using a complex system of equipment. Soviet astrophysicist Nikolai Petrovic is quoted, suggesting that other advanced civilizations might also be seeking contact. The article dismisses the feasibility of manned or automated space flights to distant stars due to vast cosmic distances and limited material speeds, implying that a more passive listening or signaling approach would be necessary.

Astronomical Discoveries

Another news item details the discovery by Cornell University astronomers of a celestial body similar in size to Earth, located 6,000 light-years away. This 'Earth twin' is thought to be a planet orbiting a pulsar or neutron star, detected through subtle variations in the star's position.

Miscellaneous Snippets and Reports

The "ritagli" (snippets) section presents a variety of intriguing, often fringe, reports:

• Witchcraft in Los Angeles: Louise Huebner claims to be the 'official witch' of Los Angeles County and demands official recognition.
• Living on Air and Water: Bhagwanji Arya from Patna, India, claims to have lived for a month solely on air and water, with his family also adopting this practice.
• Aztec Temple Discovery: An entire temple dedicated to the Aztec god Ehecatl-Quetzalcoatl was found during subway excavations in Mexico City.
• Spirits and Crime Solving: A proposal from England suggests using mediums to interrogate spirits for solving crimes, raising legal questions about the status of spirits and mediums as witnesses or technical consultants.
• New Stellar Clusters: The Mount Palomar Observatory discovered new types of stellar clusters, potentially transitional forms leading to quasars.
• Palmistry Not a Crime: A palm reader in Siracusa, Italy, was acquitted after her husband reported her for neglecting family duties, with the judge ruling palmistry is not a criminal offense.
• Haunted House in England: A mother in Kent, England, reported that her three-year-old daughter is possessed by a supernatural force, with phenomena like disembodied voices and unexplained environmental changes occurring in their home.
• Astral Method for Roulette: An Argentine astrologer, Prof. Waffman, claims to have developed an 'astral method' for winning at roulette based on planetary influences on numbers.
• Mysterious Burn on a Boy: In Santiago, Chile, a 12-year-old boy sustained a geometric burn on his shoulder, attributed to a mysterious luminous ray.
• No Water on the Moon: Dr. Gordon Goles stated that there is and never has been water on the lunar surface, based on studies of Apollo 11 samples.

Other Sections

• "Chi Cerca Trova" (Who Seeks Finds): A classified section for bibliographic research requests, with subscribers seeking various books and comics.
• "Guardare il Cielo" (Looking at the Sky): An essay by Remo Fedi discussing the dual nature of 'heaven' – the physical sky and a spiritual or transcendental realm – and the importance of looking beyond earthly concerns.
• "E' Accusato di Truffe per 60 Milioni" (Accused of Fraud for 60 Million): A report on the trial of Erich von Daeniken, the author of "Chariots of the Gods," who faces charges of embezzlement and document forgery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong interest in the unexplained, the speculative, and the frontiers of science, often blending these with popular culture and even fringe beliefs. There's a critical eye towards the commercialization of serious topics (like space stamps) but an open curiosity towards phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, from ancient astronaut theories to paranormal claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and questioning, presenting diverse viewpoints without necessarily endorsing them, while maintaining a critical perspective on sensationalism and financial exploitation. The philosophical reflections on the nature of the 'sky' and humanity's place in the cosmos suggest a deeper engagement with existential and spiritual questions.

Title: Clypeus
Issue: 19
Volume: IV
Date: 1963

This issue of Clypeus, a publication focused on new frontiers in science and the paranormal, offers a rich collection of book reviews, bibliographic listings, and articles. The content spans a wide range of subjects, from the occult and esoteric to science fiction and UFO phenomena.

Book Listings and Reviews

The first page is dedicated to a detailed catalog of books available for purchase, with bibliographic information and prices. Titles include:

• Maeterlinck M. - LA VITA DELLO SPAZIO: A 1933 work on the life of space, priced at 5,000 Lire.
• S. Savini - IL SEPER JETSIRAH: A translation and notes from 1933, priced at 5,000 Lire.
• G.B. Roggia - L'EPOPEA DI GILGAMESH: A 1951 publication, priced at 3,500 Lire.
• Schèmbari G. - LA SCIENZA ORIENTALE: A 1924 book on Eastern science, bound in half-cloth with gold lettering, priced at 5,000 Lire.
• Del Castillo Diaz - LA CONQUISTA DEL MESSICO: A 1959 book, priced at 3,500 Lire.
• Recinos A. - POPOL VUH: A 1960 Einaudi publication, priced at 3,000 Lire.
• Levi Eliphas - PARADOSSI DELLA SCIENZA SUPREMA: A 1955 book with author's photos, priced at 1,500 Lire.
• Bulgarini b. - I GRANDI ENIGMI: A 1962 book with drawings, priced at 400 Lire.
• Biancotti A. - IL NAUFRAGIO DEL CONTINENTE: A 1957 work on the legend of Atlantis, priced at 1,200 Lire.
• Papp D. - PIU' IN LA DEL SOLE: A 1949 book with photographs, priced at 2,000 Lire.
• Keyhoe D.E. - LA VERITA' SUI DISCHI VOLANTI: A 1954 book, priced at 3,500 Lire.
• Jung C.G. - SU COSE CHE SI VEDONO IN CIELO: A 1960 book, priced at 2,000 Lire.
• Bennet G. - SGUARDI NELL'IGNOTO: A 1957 book with a chapter dedicated to UFOs, priced at 3,000 Lire.
• Arrhenius S. - IL DIVENIRE DEI MONDI: A 1908 book with illustrations, described as a treatise on "Esobiology", priced at 4,000 Lire.
• Wilkins P. - GUIDA ALLA LUNA: A 1959 book with photographs and illustrations, including a chapter on "strange phenomena", priced at 500 Lire.
• Auletta G. - NEGLI SPAZI ABBIAMO FRATELLI?: A 1959 book, priced at 100 Lire.
• Oberth H. - UOMINI NELLO SPAZIO: A 1957 book with numerous illustrations, bound in green cloth, priced at 2,000 Lire.
• Alessandri Masi - ALTRI MONDI ABITATI?: A 1955 book with photographs, priced at 1,200 Lire.
• Papp D. - CHI VIVE SULLE STELLE?: A 1937 book with photographs, priced at 3,000 Lire.
• Frate Fuoco - OCCULTISMO: A 1941 book, priced at 3,000 Lire.

Articles and Features

Dizionario infernale: This section describes a celebrated repertory from the 19th century on spirits, demons, magicians, and witches, illustrated by famous demonologists. It is presented as a small, precious breviary for times of curious events and portentous apparitions. Two entries are detailed:

• Fedeltà: An excerpt from "Ammirevoli segreti di Alberto il Grande" suggests placing a diamond on the head of a sleeping woman to determine her fidelity. If she wakes startled, she is unfaithful; if she opens her eyes gently, she is innocent.
• Prudence: Piccolo Alberto suggests ensuring a woman's fidelity by having her eat wolf spinal marrow.

The entry also mentions the book "Dizionario Infernale" by Collin de Plancy, described as bound and illustrated, with 240 pages, priced at 3,500 Lire.

Flatlandia: This is a review of "Flatlandia: Racconto fantastico a più dimensioni" by Edwin A. Abbott, with a preface by Masolino d'Amico and an essay by Giorgio Manganelli. The review highlights the book's exploration of a two-dimensional world inhabited by geometric shapes, detailing its social hierarchies, laws, and the inhabitants' interactions with one-dimensional and three-dimensional worlds. It notes the book's potential as an anticipation of Einstein's theory and its value as an exercise in imagination.

Corna e lingua: This section reviews "Corna e lingua: Saggio sull'antico simbolismo cinese e le sue implicazioni" by Alfred Salmony, with a preface by C. Rugafiori. The book is described as an exemplary study that connects Chinese symbolism of horns and tongues with stylistic examples from the ancient Near East, Scythia, the classical world, India, and the Celtic world, spanning from the Mesolithic to the Middle Ages.

HOLLYWOOD NERA: A review of the book "Hollywood Nera" by Renzo Rossotti, published by MEB in Turin. The book is described as an fascinating and unvarnished account of the darker side of Hollywood, covering drug use, sex, perversions, gangsters, and the tragic death of Sharon Tate. It is noted for its journalistic approach, letting facts speak for themselves, and is characterized as a "radiograph" of Hollywood, a city that is also "a state of mind." The cover art by Rostagno is praised.

LIBRERIA L.A. MURATORI: An advertisement for a bookstore in Turin, offering free shipping and handling for subscribers to "Clypeus" and personalized dedications from the author upon request.

Il più bel dono: A short philosophical piece extolling the virtues of books as gifts, stating that a book is never an inappropriate present and always finds resonance in the human soul.

CYPEUS - NUOVE FRONTIERE DELLA SCIENZA: This page contains information for correspondence and subscription services. It includes a notice for postal agents regarding returned mail and instructions for changing addresses. It also features advertisements for:

• Graphicus: A monthly review of graphic progress.
• DISCHI VOLANTI: A specialized, worldwide magazine called "CIEL INSOLITE," offering free documentation.
• BUFORA: A journal and bulletin.
• PHENOMENĖS SPATIAUX: A publication directed by René Fouéré.
• SAUCER, SPACE & SCIENCE: A publication directed by Gene Duplantier.
• LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT: A publication from "Les Pins."
• CODOVNI Bulletin: A bulletin from Buenos Aires.
• LE COURRIER INTERPLANETAIRE: A publication from Ferney-Voltaire.
• FLYING SAUCER REVIEW: A publication from London.

There is also a notice indicating that if the square next to the subscription information is marked in red, the subscription has expired.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Clypeus are the exploration of the unknown, the paranormal, and the esoteric, alongside an interest in science fiction and the historical aspects of science. The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity, presenting a wide array of subjects for the reader's consideration, from ancient mysteries and occultism to contemporary phenomena like UFOs and the darker aspects of popular culture. The magazine acts as a conduit for information, offering access to specialized literature and publications from around the world.