THE MAN IN THE IRON MASK, 20th century, an iron mask on hinges, with slits for eyes, nose, and mouth, with a suspension hoop to the top, 38cm high The identity of the French prisoner known as the Man in the Iron Mask has remained much debated throughout centuries by great minds such as Voltaire and Dumas alike, and his identity remains unestablished to this day. Popular culture and theories speculate the unknown man to have been either the twin brother of Louis XVI or Louis XIII, the king's father. Other candidates considered include the illegitimate son of Charles II, the Duke of Monmouth, James Scott, foreign diplomats, and several high-ranking members of the French military. Condition report: With rust and patina.