L’Ami de la nature, ou manière de traiter les maladies par le prétendu magnétisme animal

Dijon: J.B. Capel, 1784. FIRST AND ONLY EDITION. Contemporary wrappers (extensive tape repairs); old library shelf label, bookplate of Paul Richer, old bookseller label of Gastelier. First and only edition of this guide to treating illness by animal magnetism. Following the work of Mesmer but diverging in his methods, Sousselier de la Tour here reports on his experiments using electricity to cure disease. He first describes natural electricity or animal magnetism and its origins in the Earth, moon, sun, sea, and air, then recounts his experiences harnessing its power to treat patients. The text includes dozens of case studies in which he claims his efforts were successful. This is the author’s only published book.

Caillet 10286; Blake 426; Crabtree 113; Norman M146.