Nollet's electrostatic generator. 19th-century illustration of the electrostatic generator designed in 1747 by French clergyman (Abbe) and physicist Jean-Antoine Nollet (1700-1770). The wheel at right is turned to produce friction by the rotation of the glass globe at left, resulting in an electric charge which is transferred to the person touching the globe. Devices such as this were used to demonstrate various aspects of electrostatics as entertainment for the wealthy in the salons of 18th-century Europe. Artwork published in 1867.