The History of Umbrellas

Umbrellas have a long history in China, with references to them in the Historical Records, the Book of Emperor. During the Spring and Autumn period, it is said that the wife of the famous craftsman Lu Ban invented the hand-held umbrella. Due to the umbrella being made of silk and being expensive, ordinary people could not afford it, and it was seen as a symbol of authority for the nobility, high-ranking monks. After the Han Dynasty, people started using cheaper paper umbrellas coated with tung oil. During the Tang and Song dynasties, paper umbrellas became popular among the people. By the Qing Dynasty, there were elaborate painted umbrellas. In the 1930s, the Chinese first invented the folding umbrella. Nowadays, umbrellas have developed from ancient parasols into many varieties such as paper umbrellas, cloth umbrellas, nylon umbrellas, plastic umbrellas, and automatic umbrellas. The materials used for the frame have also evolved from the earliest bamboo and wood to steel, aluminum, plastic, resin fiber, and organic glass, etc.
Chinese umbrellas were introduced to Japan and Southeast Asian countries during the Tang Dynasty, and to the UK in the mid-18th century. They then spread throughout Europe and the rest of the world. At that time, small sun umbrellas made of silk and lace were particularly popular and were essential accessories for ladies to carry with them. However, the umbrellas at that time weighed up to 4.5 kilograms. In the 19th century, umbrellas became lighter and foldable small umbrellas became essential for outdoor activities. There were long-handled umbrellas with silk tassels, umbrella with feathers that matched formal attire, umbrellas with ruffled edges, and luxurious lace umbrellas, etc., just like a variety of fashion styles, which made people dizzy. Walking in the garden, going out for a picnic in the countryside, visiting relatives and friends, or going to the sea to escape the heat, people wear different clothes in different occasions and seasons, of course, they need to match different umbrellas. The umbrella has become an important part of the overall appearance of a person, and it also reflects a person's intelligence and taste from the decoration and matching of ornaments.
Umbrellas are originally designed to protect us from rain and wind, and to shield us from the sun. However, with the development of the times and the continuous improvement of people's quality of life, their value has transcended the practicality and has taken on a strong fashion element, becoming a symbol of elegance. Since the 21st century, the colors and designs of umbrellas have become increasingly rich, with more attention paid to the fabrics. They are designed to match different outfits, seasons, and environments, serving a variety of purposes. People are captivated by the "fashion and style" of umbrellas.
The invention and use of umbrellas is a significant contribution of China to world culture. The umbrella industry culture is an indispensable part of our nation's ancient culture.