Who's the man on the booklet of Led Zeppelin IV?

[Crystal Mirror]

Sorry if there's a similar thread, I couldn't find one. Yesterday I bought Led Zeppelin IV (the very first album I've ever bought, I've never been so happy ). In the CD booklet there is the Hermit, the lyrics of Stairway to Heaven and a picture of another man reading a book. Who is he? Also, I noticed that there are some symbols on the picture. Do you know what do they mean?

[SteveAJones]

Sorry if there's a similar thread, I couldn't find one. Yesterday I bought Led Zeppelin IV (the very first album I've ever bought, I've never been so happy ). In the CD booklet there is the Hermit, the lyrics of Stairway to Heaven and a picture of another man reading a book. Who is he? Also, I noticed that there are some symbols on the picture. Do you know what do they mean?

I believe he's an alchemist transmuting led into gold.

[mandalanature]

I am in the same both, just bought led zeppelin 4 and am very curious about the man on the insert sleve reading the book? I had my suspicions that it was an alchemist but I would love more information if you would be willing to share. Would you know what source was the image taken from or any of the motivations of the band members to include such an image in such a place.

Thank you

Geoff

I believe he's an alchemist transmuting led into gold.