PUYSÉGUR (Armand-Marie-Jacques de Chastenet, Marquis de). Me - Lot 263

PUYSÉGUR (Armand-Marie-Jacques de Chastenet, Marquis de). Memoirs for the History and Establishment of Animal Magnetism. Second edition. Paris, published by the author, 390 Rue Saint-Honoré, and by Cellot, 9 Rue des Grands-Augustins, 1809. In-8, [4]-199 pp. Contemporary half-calf binding in brown, smooth spine decorated with fillets and small gilt metal fittings; title label missing. Red-speckled edges; bookmark preserved. A rare second edition of one of the principal works on animal magnetism and magnetic somnambulism. A disciple of Mesmer, the Marquis de Puységur (1751–1825) played a decisive role in the evolution of magnetic doctrine by highlighting the phenomena of “magnetic sleep” observed in his subjects, thereby paving the way for research that would later lead to modern hypnosis. The work brings together clinical observations, theoretical reflections, and accounts of experiments conducted by the author. It constitutes a major testimony to the history of fringe medical sciences in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, as well as to the reception of Mesmerian theories in France. A copy in its original binding. Spine faded and heavily rubbed with small areas of leather missing at the head and foot; covers slightly worn. Interior fresh, paper well-preserved. Original bookmark retained. An important reference work on the history of animal magnetism and mesmerism, now highly sought after in libraries specializing in the history of science, medicine, and esotericism.