Sheets Stacked on Sheets

In alchemy, strata (and its singular form, stratum) refers to the method of arranging materials in stacked layers during lab procedures. This concept is most famous for its role as a practical instruction known as Stratum Super Stratum (often abbreviated as SSS). Meaning "layer upon layer" or "stratum above stratum" in Latin, this term served as a common alchemical prescript or recipe instruction.

Alchemists would alternate layers of different substances such as stacking a metal sheet, followed by a layer of sulfur or salt, followed by another metal sheet to ensure an even chemical reaction throughout the mixture.

In contemporary and historical art practice, strata transcend simple geology to become a metaphor for human existence, time, and artistic process. The physical act of building up and stripping back layers dictates the artwork's core message.