A World War II British C3 Baby Gas Mask, designed to protect infants from chemical attacks during air raids. The device consists of a rubberized fabric enclosure, shaped like a large hood or sack, attached to a metal-framed viewing window and an air intake hose and filter assembly on one side. The rubberized material, originally flexible and airtight, has since hardened and cracked with age.
The infant would be completely enclosed within the bag, which sealed around the neck or torso area to prevent gas entry. Air was pumped manually into the chamber through a hand-operated bellows system (not present with this example). The transparent visor allowed caretakers to monitor the baby while maintaining an airtight seal.
These respirators were issued to families in Britain and Canada for protection against potential gas attacks during the early years of the war. They reflect the widespread fear of chemical warfare after World War I and the state’s attempt to extend civil defense measures even to the youngest citizens.