Many things, without which it is difficult to imagine modern life, often have an amazing and long history. Take at least an umbrella familiar to everyone, which is indispensable in inclement weather. For the first time such a useful device appeared more than three thousand years ago. Since then, the umbrella has been repeatedly modified until it has become a modern, comfortable and stylish accessory.
The history of the umbrella
Historians believe that the first devices resembling a modern umbrella began to be used in China, India and Egypt, and this happened a thousand years before the onset of a new era. The prototype umbrella was essentially a structure made of bamboo stalks, palm leaves, and bird feathers. The umbrella was an accessory that, at first, only members of the nobility could afford.
The first umbrellas weighed two or three kilograms and had a long handle, which was a symbol of the power and might of the reigning person.
The impressive size and weight of the umbrellas imposed certain restrictions on the way they were used. Most often, the umbrella was strengthened behind the throne of the ruler. Sometimes it was held in the hands of a special person, close to the reigning person and enjoying her confidence. A wide umbrella reliably protected a person from the scorching heat.
In the East, the umbrella was a kind of symbol of the revival of life and fertility. And only after several centuries this adaptation became firmly established in the everyday life of many peoples. It was actively used by the inhabitants of Ancient Rome, where it gradually turned into an indispensable element of the attire of noble women.
Umbrella: elegant, fashionable and practical
In Europe, umbrellas appeared relatively late - around the XIV century. The fashionistas of Holland and France actively used umbrellas that protected from the sun's rays. For three centuries, the umbrella has remained an accessory that testifies to luxury and prosperity.
The design of the umbrella was improved, but it was still quite heavy.
In Russia, umbrellas appeared closer to the middle of the 18th century. They were brought from Holland. Russian women of fashion especially liked the beautiful umbrellas decorated with ruffles and lace, which perfectly protected from the sun. Soon, craftsmen came up with a variety of shapes for umbrellas. One could find umbrellas not only round, but also square or oval.
It was around this time that umbrellas began to be widely used to keep the rain out. The first such umbrella was equipped with a cover made of dense fabric, reminiscent of a tarp. Over time, the umbrella has become one of the men's accessories. He was able not only to protect from bad weather, but could be used as a comfortable walking stick. And if necessary, a massive umbrella became a weapon against hooligans.
A century and a half ago, an umbrella was invented in England, the basis of which was a metal frame with knitting needles. Now it is possible to use a thin and durable water-repellent fabric as a protective shell. Gradually, the umbrella ceased to be an item available only to the rich and noble people. Today, everyone can choose an umbrella of any color, which will make it stand out from the crowd and will reliably protect it from the rain.
