Mesmer's Wand Or By Magnetism, 18th Century

18th century masterpiece of steel used for experiments in experimental physics, electricity, medical magnetism or mesmerism. The instrument is kept in a case shaped in green morocco. Intriguing instrument built in very high quality steel for the period and dating from the second half of the 18th century. The rod is kept in its case shaped in green morocco with small gold decoration. The piece of steel measures 25.5 cm long and 6-12 mm in diameter. Although we have not been able to find a similar object in collections or old literature, this steel rod is reminiscent of the experimental steels of Faraday or Galvani. It can be assumed that this piece of steel, kept as a luxury or important object in a morocco case, was used for experiments in experimental physics, electricity or magnetism, or perhaps even for experiments in animal magnetism as part of Mesmer's experiments. The luxurious case clearly indicates that the object must have been of great value and carefully preserved. The upper part of the case lid is missing otherwise very good original condition. Some ink annotations on the case, impossible to decipher today.