United States, ca. 1854 to 1900 CE. This is a "Magneto Electric Machine", a well-known electrotheraphy device that was patented by Davis and Kidder and manufactured by W.H. Burnap. The piece was purchased both by the general public and by hospitals. It produces alternating currents of electricity -- current strength and frequency are controlled by changing the cranking speed. Davis and Kidder claimed that the device would relieve pain and cure numerous diseases, including cancer, consumption (tuberculosis), diabetes, gangrene, heart disease, lockjaw (tetanus), and spinal deformities. There are youtube videos that you can look up showing how the device works. Size: 8-1/2" L x 4-1/2" H x 4" W (21.6 cm x 11.4 cm x 10.2 cm).

Provenance: Ex-Historia Antiques, James Caswell, Santa Monica, CA

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#111105

The outer box has some cracking and the belt drive needs some repair, but the piece still works -- we tested it!