ravenest
Waite says of the Two of Cups: "It is a variant of a sign which is found in a few old examples of this card." Here is an "old example" from the Grimaud Grand Etteilla. Definitely alchemical.
Definitely ! The two of cups in anyone's book (deck) is 'alchemical' in that:
Being a 2 it is very close to the pure source ...we call it love but it is very pure love (not the 'I love a beer' type of love). Crowley talks about the idea of 'charge' and chemical combinations - 'irresistible attractions' in the world of chemistry; forces(physical in chemistry and 'metaphysical' in alchemy and hormonal in biology.
The influence of Venus ( suggested in the etymological relationship of the root venes- with Latin venenum {poison, venom}, in the sense of "a charm, magic philtre". Which is why the cups can appear as a type of chemical or alchemical vessel. [The vessel in your example seems extremely volatile! Also. note the serpents; again , venenum.]
The potency of this 'draft' is further supported by cancer in that;
The crab is a symbol of powerful gripping and holding power. (The force of the 'philtre' and its irresistible effect on the body chemistry / hormones).
The verb 'to crab', is to drift sidewise ... the greater effect of the 'potion' as opposed to the effect of the conscious decisions (to move forward)
The idea of cancer as the 'container' or alembic as well in that it encloses and brings to development the forces within ( Cancer : the mother : the house hold : the nurturing environment : etc.