Discover our collection of Chinese umbrellas
Providing you with the best Chinese umbrellas is our priority. That's why all our umbrellas are authentic Chinese umbrellas, created according to the Chinese tradition and know-how. We are committed to offering quality Chinese umbrellas.
Moreover, we commit ourselves to regularly renew our catalog of Chinese umbrellas, to always quench your thirst of discovery of China. Finally, we commit ourselves to answer all your requests and questions in 48 hours maximum.
History
China invented umbrellas and parasols, which are still commonly used in the country. The oldest umbrellas are believed to have been invented over 2000 years ago, and were made of silk. In ancient times, the frame of the umbrellas was made of mulberry bark or bamboo. Craftsmen painted the umbrellas with motifs such as the imperial dragon, landscapes, animals of the zodiac, flowers and scenes from mythology.
The silk parasols then evolved to be made of paper, around the first century BC. To protect them from rain, the Chinese coated the paper with lacquer and wax, because these greasy substances naturally repel water. These paper umbrellas quickly became a fashion accessory for the women of the Chinese nobility. They were used not only to protect from the sun but also to protect from the rain, thanks to the coating applied on the paper.
Because of their rarity and high quality, umbrellas quickly became a symbol of power and prosperity in China and Asia. To differentiate themselves from the common people, the imperial family and the nobility wore only red or yellow parasols, while the rest of the population used blue parasols. Over time, their value decreased, making them accessible to all Chinese castes and thus popularizing them.
The surrounding countries, especially Korea, Thailand and Burma, adopted this fashion of Chinese parasols, and the inhabitants were very proud to show their beautiful parasols. This fashion was particularly appreciated in Japan, where even today, the beauty criteria encourage a pale and white skin.
This parasol culture quickly crossed the Asian borders and was popularized in Europe. This very feminine accessory was particularly popular with the nobility in France, Italy and England, where it quickly evolved into the accessory that is well known to all today: the umbrella.
Today, modern umbrellas made of plastic and wood account for the majority of sales, but traditional Chinese umbrellas are still respected by all for their beauty, delicacy and admirable craftsmanship. They are traditionally found in the provinces of Fujian and Hunan, which still sell them by the thousands.
For more China, you can find other Chinese items in our Chinese accessories collection.