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A history of medical masks

From animal-bladder skin to houndstooth check and sequins, face masks have undergone many revolutions in design over the centuries. Writer Lizzie Enfield traces their history in pictures.

Words by Lizzie Enfield

  • In pictures

About the author

Colour head and shoulders photograph of writer Lizzie Enfield

Lizzie Enfield

Lizzie Enfield is a journalist and regular contributor to national newspapers, magazines and radio. She has written five novels, and had her short stories broadcast on BBC Radio 4.