Mesmer derides use of physical props
Franz Mesmer (1781). Précis Historique des faits relatifs au Magnetisme-Animal, jusqu én Avril 1781
The so-called “imitators” of my method have erected baquets in their hotels resembling the one that can he seen in my treatment room. If that’s all these imitators know about, they are not very advanced.
Assuming that I were to have a suitable establishment, I would abolish the baquets. In general, I only use these little contrivances when I am forced to do so.