Victorian Arnold & Sons Magneto-Electric Medical Machine – London c.1870–1885 – Working

Fascinating and increasingly collectible Victorian magneto-electric medical machine, manufactured by the renowned London surgical instrument makers Arnold & Sons, 35 & 36 West Smithfield, London.

Dating from approximately c.1870–1885, the apparatus is housed within its original fitted wooden case and retains the impressive original green manufacturer's instruction label to the underside of the lid.

The machine was designed to generate an electrical current mechanically. Turning the external hand crank operates the internal electromagnetic mechanism, with the resulting current delivered through the two handheld electrodes.

Such apparatus formed part of the rapidly developing field of Victorian electrotherapy, when electrical stimulation was employed for a variety of medical and therapeutic purposes.

The original Arnold & Sons catalogue of 1880 documents the firm's production of powerful electro-magneto machines housed in mahogany cases.
CNUM

This example retains its hand crank, internal magneto mechanism, two handheld electrodes and original Arnold & Sons label.

Working condition — the mechanism operates when the handle is turned.

The original label identifies Arnold & Sons as surgical instrument makers and gives their address as 35 & 36 West Smithfield, London.

A superb display piece for a collection of medical antiques, scientific instruments, electrical history or Victorian technology.