Caricature of Franz Anton Mesmer, c1785
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Caricature of Franz Anton Mesmer, c1785
Caricature of Franz Anton Mesmer, c1785. He is depicted as an ass hypnotising a female subject with a finger. In 1779, soon after the publication of his treatise Memoire sur la decouverte de magnetism animal, Mesmer (1734-1815), the founder of Mesmerism, opened a consulting room in Paris. Considered by many to be a quack and charlatan, his tub and his ideas of animal magnetism were ridiculed
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14840233
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Franz Hypnosis Hypnotising Hypnotism Hypnotist Magnetism Mesmer Mesmerism Oxford Science Archive Patient Quack Therapy Franz Mesmer
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from the 18th century captures the satirical essence of Franz Anton Mesmer, the controversial founder of Mesmerism. Depicted as an ass, Mesmer is shown hypnotizing a female subject with just a finger. The caricature reflects the widespread skepticism towards his ideas of animal magnetism and portrays him as a quack and charlatan. In 1779, shortly after publishing his treatise on animal magnetism, Mesmer opened a consulting room in Paris. However, instead of gaining credibility, he faced ridicule from many who considered his tub and therapeutic techniques to be nothing more than pseudoscience. The engraving not only highlights Mesmer's questionable practices but also serves as social commentary on the prevailing attitudes towards women during that era. The image showcases how easily people could be manipulated by those claiming to possess extraordinary powers. Despite being met with criticism during his lifetime, Franz Anton Mesmer left an indelible mark on history through mesmerism or hypnosis. This print offers us a glimpse into both the man himself and society's perception of him at that time. Created anonymously by an artist known simply as Anon, this thought-provoking artwork now resides in the Oxford Science Archive collection for all to ponder upon its historical significance.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
