A Mid-19th Century Tool for Hypnosis

Abstract

The authors examine a hypnosis instrument marketed in the 1860s by prominent Parisian instrument maker, Joseph Frédéric Benoît Charrière (1803-1876). This instrument holds significant historical value and warrants preservation for museological purposes. Serving as a tangible proof of the hypnotic “setting”, it represents a critical link between late mesmerism and early development of modern hypnosis. Preserving such artifacts is crucial for understanding the evolution of hypnotic practices and the broader historical context of medical instrumentation. Charrière’s contributions to surgical tools are well-documented, and this instrument exemplifies the intersection of his work with the burgeoning field of hypnotism. The instrument not only illustrates the technological advancements of the period, but also reflects the shifting paradigms in therapeutic practices from mesmerism to modern hypnosis. As such, it is an invaluable piece for both historical and educational displays, offering insights into the practical applications and theoretical underpinnings of hypnosis in the nineteenth century