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- 1945 (Creation)
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Country of Design: United Kingdom
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Note
Invisible Men exhibition label:
BRITISH MILITARY FOUL WEATHER CAPE
1917-1945
Maker unknown
Initially issued to British soldiers during the First World War, the MKVII cape buttons up the front and has a large high collar to keep the water out. It could also be used as a waterproof groundsheet and a shelter to keep soldiers dry.
Rubberised Canvas
Archive no. 2015.51
Note
From Inside the Westminster Menswear Archive:
1917 PATTERN MK II CAPE
British Army
1945
The British Army introduced the Rain Cape Pattern MK VII in 1917, and it remained in service until 1941, when it was replaced with a tan version. It was designed to be worn over the soldier’s uniform and equipment during inclement weather, also functioning as a shelter. One side of the dyed canvas has been treated with a rubberized coating. It has a large high collar that can be adjusted to fit around the wearer’s neck to keep water out. Along the edge of the cape are brass grommets that allow it to be attached to another cape to form a two-man shelter. Additionally, it could be used as a waterproof groundsheet to keep soldiers dry. This cape has been patched and repaired along the front edge and hem, indicating that it was well used.
Rubberized Canvas
Archive no. 2015.51