The simple fabric face mask is a key agent in the fight against the global spread of COVID19. However beyond its role as a protective covering against coronavirus infection the face mask is the bearer of powerful symbolic and political power and arouses intense emotions. Adopting an international perspective informed by social theory The Face Mask in COVID Times A Sociomaterial Analysis offers an intriguing and original investigation of the social cultural and historical dimensions of facemasking as a practice in the age of COVID. Rather than Becks risk society we are now living in a COVID society the longterm effects of which have yet to be experienced or imagined. Everything has changed. The COVID crisis has generated novel forms of sociality and new ways of living and moving through space and time. In this new world the face mask has become a significant object positioned as one of the key ways people can protect themselves and others from infection with the coronavirus. The face mask is rich with symbolic meaning as well as practical value. In the words of theorist Jane Bennett the face mask has acquired a new thingpower as it is coming together with human bodies in these times of uncertainty illness and death. The role of the face mask in COVID times has been the subject of debate and dissension arousing strong feelings. The historical and cultural contexts in which face masks against COVID contagion are worn or not worn are important to consider. In some countries such as Japan and other East Asian nations face mask wearing has a long tradition. Full or partial facial coverings such as veiling is common practice in regions such as the Middle East. In many other countries including most countries in the Global North most people beyond health care workers have little or no experience of face masks. They have had to learn how to make sense of face masking as a protective practice and how to incorporate face masks into their everyday practices and routines. Fac