Mixed Media on paper, ready to hang.

Signed on the front.

This artwork comes with an external frame

A Portrait of true Heroism.
This is the very first FIRE RESCUE HELMET.
It was made in 1878 by Siebe Gorman Co. who still make Fire Rescue & Diving Helmets today.
It is made of leather with aluminium doors that swing open with mica used to see through. This is also the first industrial use of Aluminium, it was considered quite rare and valuable.
The helmet attached to a long hose that ran to a large foot operated bellows. The Fireman would enter a smoky building to rescue those trapped inside with this hose as his only air supply and lifeline. Signals were given by means of tugs on the hose...1 tug for more air, 2 tugs for less air and 3 tugs for HELP!
You had to be an absolute HERO to wear one of these helmets, hence the name if this artwork.