Health Sciences · Hospital for Sick Children
A metal mask designed to cover the mouth and nose. It has been designed to fold so as to fit more easily into a medical bag. The mask consists of a metal frame and an inner cage consisting of two intersecting curved elements. The frame terminates in a bent loop that serves as a handle. Both halves of the cage can be folded such that they lie flat relative to the metal frame. The frame itself has a hinge that permits it to fold approximately in half.
Accession Number: 2025.sk.42
Alternative Name: Travelling Anesthesia Mask.
Primary Materials: Metal
Markings:
Dimensions (cm): Height = 5, Width = 9, Length = 17.
The Esmarch mask was introduced in 1877 as a means to administer inhalation anesthetic. A fabric covering was stretched over the wire framework. The mask was placed over a patient’s mouth and nose, and a small amount of volatile anesthetic, either chloroform or ether, was dropped or poured onto the mask’s fabric covering.
This is a folding version of the Esmarch mask designed to save space in a travelling medical kit.
This mask is in excellent cosmetic condition, with very light blemishes to its metal finish.
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Manufacturer:
Date of Manufacture: Early 20th c.
Provenance:
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