This rare and fascinating device was used as an electro-therapy aid during the late 19th-early 20th Century. First created c1880 the principle was that the metronome when connected to a shock machine would help generate regulated electrical pulses which could either mimic the person’s existing heart rate or help realign a racing heart rate. By mimicking a heart beat it was felt the body would thus respond better to the electric shocks helping it to heal quicker.
These devices found favour between c1900-20 and were particularly used on patients with heart disease or a raised heart rate. They were also used to help strengthen damaged muscles as well as to treat obesity. The device consists of a regular musical metronome with a see-saw bar hooked up to the hand. Usually as the see-saw rocked the arms would each dip into a small mercury pot which would complete or cut an electrical circuit.
Although made by several private companies this example was created for the ‘Medical Aid Association’ and dates to c1900-10. The group helped provide medical and disability aids within the UK and supplied many of the hospitals and institutions. During WW1 metronome interrupters were used with injured troops (see photo below) but fell out of favour shortly afterwards.
By the early 1920s the principle of the Metronome Interrupter was transferred into new inventions such as the Morse Wave Generator. As a specialist item these simple Metronome Interrupters were never made in large quantities and seem to be particularly rare today ( apart from those in collections so far I have only come across one sold at auction in the UK over the last decade) . This example in mahogany uses a standard commercial metronome from the time which has had the upright musical speed plate removed as it was not needed. There are half a dozen woodworm holes around where the speed plate was but these have been treated and filled with wax. Otherwise it is offered in very good original untouched and complete condition. It has not been tested in any way.
Approximate Dimensions: 19cm wide x 24cm deep x 24 cm high
