Original Item: Only One Available. This is a fantastic example of a rather rare item from WWI. This splatter mask “shield” would have been leather covered with a chainmail skirt to cover the mouth and chin area. It is our belief that this was intentionally removed from the leather to be worn more as an eye shield, possibly for a tank commander so his voice wouldn’t be muffled by the chainmail skirt. This is a wonderful example, offered in wonderful condition!
Splatter masks were designed to protect the face of anyone looking through the viewports of the tank to guard against shrapnel, which was typically the tank driver. The metal eye covers had small horizontal slits in them to reduce the likelihood of eye damage while allowing the wearer to see. Helmets would have to be worn with the splatter mask as the forehead and top of the head would be exposed.
This example is in wonderful condition and still retains nearly all of the original green paint with brow and cheek pads still present and soft.
A lovely example that comes more than ready for further research and display.