Lot # 58: Circa 1890s Birdcage Catcher's Mask

Rare piece of early baseball catcher's equipment dating to the late nineteenth century. While we cannot date this piece precisely, it is likely that it originates from the 1890s based on period advertising we have researched. The catcher's mask, which was invented in 1876 by Harvard captain Fred Thayer, along with the baseball glove, are probably the two pieces of baseball equipment that have changed the most since their inception. As one can see here, this mask is primitive when compared with the catcher's masks of today and its meager protection is one of the reasons that catcher's gear was referred to as "the tools of ignorance" during the late nineteenth century. The approximately 9.5-inch tall mask's metal "cage" has survived well over time, maintaining its original shape and escaping significant tarnishing. The leather padding on the left and right sides has worn significantly on the inside. The head strap is thin and displays heavy wear. A fascinating relic of the early days of baseball!