Unnamed Archive
Maker: Unknown
Date Made: n.d.
Country: German Democratic Republic
Materials: photograph paper
Measurements: 17.5 cm x 12 cm; 6 7/8 in x 4 3/4 in
Language: German
Genre/Form: photograph
This black and white photograph is a highly detailed anatomical diagram of the outer ear with extensive labels. Identified are the three sections of the outer rim of the ear- the tragus, the entrance to the ear canal, and the earlobe, among others. In German the labels read as "Anfangsteil der Ohrleiste", "Obere Ohrleiste", "Hintere Ohrleiste", "Gehörgang", "Ohrläppchen"; "Tragus" etc. Such a detailed analysis of the structure of the ear suggests that GDR border guards were trained to a very high degree of particularity. Border guards underwent intensive training in identity recognition and were tested on highly specific knowledge such as ear anatomy, as well as a more general proficiency in the recognition of facial features.
Collection/Series: Peter Bochmann Border Guard Collection
Accession Number: 2017.015.044