Galvanic brooch, France, 1880-1920
The brooch is made from a number of different metals including brass, copper, lead and nickel-plated iron. The inscription translates from French as “Medical electro medal, purifies blood, cleanses bile, cures pains and rheumatism, health [is] all ruling”. It also carries the maker’s name, “E Osselin”. The brooch was sold as a form of electrotherapeutic treatment, not dissimilar to the way copper bracelets are still used to relieve the pain of rheumatoid arthritis.
Object number:
A602789
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: brooch
No description.
Glossary: electrotherapy
The passing of electric currents through the body's tissues to stimulate the functioning of nerves and the muscles.
Glossary: galvanism
Any form of medical treatment that uses electricity.
Glossary: rheumatism
A disorder where aches and pains affect the muscles and joints.