Not only did they make the “bad air” smell better – these herbs and flowers were thought to actually counteract the disease. Common additions included roses, carnations, mint, cloves, myrrh, camphor, or a vinegar sponge. In the bottom of the beak sat dried flowers and herbs, which were meant to make the smell more pleasant for the wearer. What are plague doctor masks, and what went into their design? Curved glass lenses covered the eyes of the plague doctor mask, and a large beak shaped piece covered the mouth and nose. Plague doctors would carry a long cane to inspect the flesh of those overcome with the plague, to move a patient during treatment, or possibly to ward off those who sought treatment. The beaked mask portion covered the entire face and intended to protect the wearer from the unwanted smells of disease.Īs a sign of status (and as was typical fashion of the time), the doctors also wore a black hat. Many thought that the disease was airborne, and that these accessories would prevent doctors from breathing in deadly air. Why did doctors choose to wear these beaked masks when treating patients? The full head-to-toe leather outfit (including boots, pants, blouse, and apron) was meant to protect doctors by preventing unwanted contact with those who had the Plague. de l’Orne was a renowned 17th century physician who served as chief physician of Henri IV, Louis XIII and Louis XIV. However, historians believe it actually wasn’t invented until about 200-300 years later in the 17th century by Charles de l’Orne. The plague doctor uniform is most closely associated with the Black Death that swept Europe during the mid-1300s. What are plague doctor masks? And why did physicians once swear by them to defend against disease? The Origin of the Plague Doctor Mask These beaked masks were always a popular accessory (even before the COVID-19 pandemic brought them back into the pop culture world), but you may be surprised to learn about their medical origins. As you search for the perfect spooky Halloween costume, you might come across a plague doctor mask or two.
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