The Plague Doctor's mask.

I decided to look at protective wear through time as a starting point.

In the 17th and 18th Century, this beak-like mask was worn in order to protect the doctor from contracting the plague whilst treating ill patients.

The beak like tip of the mask was traditionally filled with dried lavender, mint or rose petals in order to "get rid of the bad smells".

I find the shape of the quite eerie but the function has over ridden the style of the shape, but the dark theme of the plague marries well with the disturbing appearance of the mask.

The materials are also something of interest; leather, glass and metallic studding. I may also look at the stitching of the leather and the techniques used, as they must have been particularly strong structures in order to protect the wearer.