Articles

Abstract:

A research method is presented that takes up one of Rudolf Steiner’s suggestions for attaining imaginative experiences: sensory perceptions are expressed in painted pictures without forming concepts. In applying this method, inner activity becomes the organ of perception and the subjectobject separation between the human being and nature can be overcome. This is illustrated using the scent of four plant species that were fertilised separately with copper, iron or gold in cultivation experiments. Each metal causes a specific change in the plant scent. Each metal effect is the same for all four plant species. When fertilised with copper, the plants produce a warm and concentrated scent, creating an atmosphere of inwardness. Plants fertilised with gold have a balanced and bright scent, creating a harmonising and clarifying mood. Fertilisation with iron, on the other hand, often results in a cooler, more powerful and earthy scent, with a more awakening and activating effect. Rudolf Steiner’s statements on the influence of Venus and Mars shed light on what occurs when the effects of copper and iron are perceived.