This is a German Lederschutzmaske-type gas mask developed during the second half of the First World War. It is made of a single sheet of chrome-tanned sheepskin treated with an oil sealant (see sources section for source), with two large circular lenses framed in metal rims. The lenses are reinforced by a structure of metal spokes radiating out from the center, which was removed from later design iterations. The leather portion of the mask terminates at the bottom, where it connects to a large circular metal respirator canister. The canister consists of an internal filter with a respirator tube that would have once been used by the wearer inside the mask for breathing. The edges of the leather portion of the mask have been treated with a pine sap resin meant to create a better seal around the edges of the face. Several straps attached to the top side portions of the leather mask would serve to secure the mask around the back of the wearer's head. Several twine strands are attached to these straps, although their purpose is unknown. This style of gas mask replaced the Gummimaske design due to the success of the British naval blockade of Germany in World War One. As rubber became rarer due to the blockade, the German Army changed construction methods to involve more leather materials which could be treated to properly protect soldiers against chemical attacks. Because of the sturdy design of the Lederschutzmaske, it was deemed a far more effective and efficient mode of gas defense for infantry soldiers. A version of this mask type was even modified to protect horses in the German Army from chemical attacks. This content can be used with the following resources: SS.4.25: Technological Change This content can be used to educate students on the changes in military weapons technology that took palce during the First World War and how those changes impacted the lives of Iowa servicemen. For any use other than instructional resources, please check with the organization that owns this item for any copyright restrictions.
2018.002.052 [Mask, Gas]
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