Report of the Commissioners on Animal Magnetism

the top of this chest is pierced with a number of holes, from which emerge bent and movable iron branches original: "branches de fer coudées." These were jointed iron rods that functioned like adjustable probes.. The patients are placed in several rows around this tub baquet: a large wooden vat or chest that served as the central battery for the magnetic fluid during group sessions, and each has his iron branch, which, by means of the bend, can be applied directly to the affected part; a rope passed around their bodies unites them to one another; sometimes a second chain is formed by communicating through the hands, that is to say, by applying the thumb between the thumb and the index finger of one's neighbor: then one presses the thumb thus held; the impression received on the left is passed to the right, and it circulates all around.

A piano forte is placed in a corner of the room, and various tunes are played upon it with varied movements; sometimes the sound of the voice and singing are added.

All those who magnetize The "magnetizers" were the practitioners or assistants who directed the treatment. hold an iron wand in their hand, ten to twelve inches long.

Mr. Deslon declared to the Commissioners, 1st that this wand is a conductor of Magnetism; it has the advantage of concentrating it in its point, and of making its emanations more powerful. 2nd Sound, in accordance with the principle of Mr. Mesmer, is also a conductor of Magnetism, and to communicate the fluid The "universal fluid" was the invisible medium Mesmer claimed to manipulate to restore health. to the piano forte, it suffices to bring the iron wand close to it; the person playing the instrument also provides some, and the Magnetism is transmitted by the sounds to the surrounding patients. 3rd The rope with which the patients surround themselves is intended, as is the chain of thumbs, to increase the effects through communication. 4th The interior of the tub is composed of