M.A.S.K.

A mask is a piece of material or kit worn on the face. Masks have been used since antiquity for both ceremonial and practical purposes. more...

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The word mask came via French masque and either Italian maschera or Spanish máscara. Possible ancestors are Latin (not classical) mascus, masca = "ghost", and Arabic maskharah = "jester", "man in masquerade".

The 5000-year-old Mask of Warka is believed to be the oldest surviving mask.

masks are typically made from wood and may use rope, animal horns or teeth, or rubber from tire inner tubes.

In Africa, specifically West Africa, masks play an important role in traditional ceremonies and theatrical dances. All African masks fall into one of four categories: the ancestor spirit, the mythological hero, the combination of ancestor and hero, and the animal spirit.;

To prevent recognition

Criminals often use masks to avoid recognition when committing crimes. In many jurisdictions, it is an additional criminal offense to wear a mask while committing a crime; it is also often a crime to wear a mask at public assemblies and demonstrations. For instance, in Virginia, it is illegal for anyone over sixteen years of age to wear a mask in a public place. In some states, it is only illegal to wear a mask if there is intent to commit an illegal act.; Occasionally a witness for the prosecution appears in court in a mask to avoid being recognized by associates of the accused.; Participants in a black bloc at protests usually wear masks, often bandannas, to avoid recognition, and to try to protect against any riot control agents used.;

Protective

Protective masks have these functions:

Providing a supply of breathable air or other oxygen-containing gas.; Protecting the face against flying objects or dangerous environments, while allowing vision.;

Many masks have both functions.
This category merges into the categories of goggles and protective helmets and visors.
Here are included:

A cloth tied over the mouth and nose as a dust filter.; Filter masks.; Surgical masks.; Gas masks.; The familiar eyes-and-nose diving mask.; Breathing masks connected to some industrial breathing sets. These are usually fullface.; Breathing masks connected to some scuba sets. These are usually fullface. See this link and this link for examples.;

Oxygen masks worn by high-altitude pilots.; Oxygen masks used as part of medical oxygen resuscitation kit.; Anaesthetic masks used in surgery in hospitals.; CPR masks used in Cardiopulminary Resuscitation; Sport masks such as fencing masks, ice hockey goalkeeper's masks, baseball catcher, and American football; Ski masks.; Welder's masks.; The faceplates of spacesuit helmets.; Paintball masks.;

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