Something that really sticks out to me is the practiced neutrality of the alchemist's face. It's a calm expression, which is a nice contrast to the whirlwind of potions and papers around her, but neither pleasant nor unpleasant in a way that seems to me very intentional. It's not a relaxed face, but one trained to betray no emotion. For all the cheery colors of her garb and the stained-glass window, this is someone who considers her alchemy to be serious business.



For a painting with no actual story behind it, it amazes me how much it feels like there's a story behind it due to the wealth of details and contrasting elements.