MESMER, Franz.

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Mémoire sur la découverte du magnétisme animal. First edition of the definitive exposition of animal magnetism; a beautiful copy in contemporary wrappers. The hugely influential theory of mesmerism, named after the author, pioneered psychotherapeutic techniques and led to innovations in the scientific method. It "became such a popular health care sensation in France that it was as much a social movement as a medical practice" (Garrison & Morton).Building on earlier ephemeral publications such as his Letter on Magnetic Treatment (1775), this book is Mesmer's first complete elucidation of his theory of animal magnetism. Mesmer (1734-1815) claimed that he had discovered the existence of a "universal fluid" that responded to magnetic forces and could be manipulated within patients to cure illness. The fluid could be transmitted inside people, animals, and objects, first through magnets and later through sheer will, solely by pointing at them. Mesmer's medical practice was elaborately choreographed and consisted of receiving patients in dimly lit, fragranced chambers whilst clad in extravagant robes. The theory, although pervasive, was controversial; despite his patrons including famous figures such as Marie Antoinette, his detractors condemned him as merely a theatrical showman. To investigate the veracity of mesmerism further, Louis XVI established the "Royal Commission on Animal Magnetism" in 1784. Members included Benjamin Franklin, Joseph-Ignace Guillotin, and Antoine Lavoisi

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