Body armour and visors by G. H. Davis
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Body armour and visors by G. H. Davis
Body armour and visors: medieval style protection for the British army during the Second World War. This protection stops small, low-velocity steel fragments which cause such a large percentage of serious casualties and blindness in modern warfare. Date: 1940
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14125499
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Armour Blindness Body Bullet Casualties Damage Davis Explosion Fragments Goggles Grenade Protect Protecting Protection Shell Stop Velocity Visor Warfare Visors
EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking photograph, taken by G. H. Davis in 1940, captures the medieval-style body armour and visors used by the British army during the Second World War for protection against small, low-velocity steel fragments. In modern warfare, such fragments accounted for a significant percentage of serious casualties and blindness. The use of these armours and visors was a crucial innovation in the face of the evolving nature of warfare during the 1930s and 1940s. The image shows a soldier wearing a tin helmet adorned with a visor, reminiscent of medieval knights' helmets. The body armour is made up of multiple plates, covering the chest, back, and sides, providing protection against shrapnel and bullets. A bag-like structure is attached to the back of the armour, likely used to carry additional supplies or equipment. The soldier also wears goggles, which are integrated into the visor, offering further protection for the eyes from the impact of grenades, shells, or bullets. The use of these medieval-style protective elements was a response to the damage caused by small, low-velocity steel fragments in modern warfare. These fragments, often produced by explosions, could penetrate the skin and cause severe injuries or blindness. The armour and visors were designed to stop these fragments, providing a vital layer of protection for soldiers in the heat of battle. This photograph is a poignant reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the British military during the Second World War. The use of medieval-style body armour and visors represents a fascinating intersection of history and innovation, as the military drew upon the past to address the challenges of the present.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
