Mesmers Baquet / Figuier
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Mesmers Baquet / Figuier
Mesmers baquet, Paris Date: circa 1780
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14270109
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1780 Altered Baquet Figuier Hypnosis Mesmer Mesmers Paranormal
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print depicts a mesmeric séance taking place in Paris around 1780, featuring the famous Mesmer's Baquet or "Tank of Wonders." The Baquet, designed by Austrian physician Franz Mesmer, was believed to induce altered states of consciousness and heal various ailments through the power of magnets and "animal magnetism." During a séance, participants would sit around the large tub filled with water and iron filings, submerging their feet or hands in the water. Mesmer would then wave a magnetized wand over the water, supposedly transferring his magnetic energy to the participants, inducing a trance-like state. The figure in the center of the print, holding the wand, is Mesmer himself, dressed in the fashionable attire of the time. Surrounding him are various individuals, some in deep trances, their eyes rolled back, while others appear more skeptical or even amused. The figure in the lower left corner, holding a book and wearing a top hat, is believed to be the famous French painter Jacques-Louis David, who was known to have attended a Mesmer séance. The print also includes a large fig tree, symbolizing the connection between the natural world and the paranormal phenomena taking place. The tree's branches reach out towards the participants, as if to offer protection or guidance. This historical image offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Mesmer and his followers, a time when the boundaries between science, spirituality, and entertainment were blurred, and the mysteries of the human mind were yet to be fully understood.
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