Meet a Former CIA Chief of Disguise | Object of Intrigue | Atlas Obscura

Meet Jonna Mendez, the former CIA Chief of Disguise (a real job!). During her tenure, Mendez oversaw the equipment used by spies to conceal their identities, including a five-second mask, which had been inspired by Hollywood. The technology, developed over a period of 10 years, allowed for facial movement—and, unlike its cinematic counterparts, which required hours in the makeup chair, it could be put on and removed at a moment’s notice. Listen to Mendez explain the ins and outs of this unique piece of spy technology.  Subscribe for more videos like this: To learn more about the International Spy Museum’s collection of unique objects, visit their website here: And a special thanks to Clint Emerson, the owner of this fascinating mask. At Atlas Obscura, our mission is to inspire wonder and curiosity about the incredible world we all share. See where we’re exploring here: Subscribe for more videos like this: