German WW1 M1917 Gas Mask and canister

German WW1 M1917 Gas Mask and Canister.

German M1917 'Lederschutzmaske' (Leather protection mask) gas mask. The mask is made from a single piece of chrome-tanned sheepskin dipped in an oil sealant solution. The single seam running under the chin and the folded edge of the mask are coated with a black sealant lacquer partially made from rubber. The circular eyepieces are made of two layers of yellowed celluloid, set in painted circular steel frames with leather gaskets where they are let into the mask. Internally, the eyepieces have removable metal 'spiders' enabling the inner layer (which was coated with gelatine to absorb moisture) to be replaced. The right 'spider' fitted to the mask has some of the inner circular metal piece missing. Khaki cotton head straps are connected to coiled springs inside cotton sleeves to keep mask in place. A long khaki cotton webbing strap attached near the chin enables the mask to be suspended around the neck.

A rusted and scratched grey-green canister filter unit dated 1918. The canister with most of its original field grey green finish is missing its carry strap/sling but retains a set of spare eye lenses. in the lid.

The Germans used both leather 'leder' and rubber 'gummi' masks during the First World War. Sometimes referred to as 'model 1917', after the year of its introduction, this style of gas mask was also known as the 'Ledermaske (Gasmaske 17)'. The spoked metal devices on the inside of both lenses were known informally as 'spiders'. These were removed on the improved Gasmaske 18.

The gas mask carry case was known as a 'Lederschutzmaske (Bereitschaftsbuchen)'. This case contained a small compartment in the folding lid for spare set of lenses and usually contained an instruction sheet at the bottom explaining how to use the gas mask.

This example with overall wear consummate with age.

Code: 26