Home / Editor's Pick /

On the theme of rain: Do you know the history of the umbrella?

11:00
14 July 2023

On the theme of rain
Do you know the history of the umbrella?

umbrella

You're likely using a more than 3,000-year-old Chinese invention today, though it had a slightly different purpose at first...

The umbrella you're often pulling out the cupboard to protect you from the rain, was in fact invented over 3000 years ago and intended to protect you from the sun.

It does indeed still have a shade function, particularly in Asian countries, but for those of us used too more rain than sun, it's adopted a different function.

The first umbrella of its kind was thought to be made of bamboo, palm leaves or bird feathers, and first used across Egypt, China and India.

However, over time they have become waterproofed and water-resistant. It is thought that the Chinese first used oil-soaked silk in order to do this, before then developing the style into oil and lacquered paper.

The umbrella became an increasingly popular item across Europe by the 1600s, predominantly used as a feminine accessory, as a parasol. In 1710 a patent was taken out for the folding umbrella.

It wasn't really until the 1800s however, that the rain-purposed umbrella came about. Still, at first it was only an item nobles or royalty had access to.

Thankfully, it's an item we all have access to widely in the UK and Ireland, crucial considering our regular wet weather.

More on the topic
Friday 4 July 2025

Across UK and Ireland

Gusting winds prompt warnings
Sunday 22 June 2025

Your weather - Your shots

Radiant lightning strikes and sunrises
Monday 23 June 2025

Gusts of up to 45 mph

Wind warnings start the week
All weather news
This might also interest you
Tuesday 1 July 2025

Breakfast brief

Heat reaches a peak, cloudy in places
Thursday 26 June 2025

Breakfast brief

Gusting winds return with bands of rain
Friday 4 July 2025

Breakfast brief

Gusty and wet end to the week
All articles
Weather & Radar

www.weatherandradar.ie

facebooktwitteryouTubeContact uslinkList
Privacy Policy | Legal info | Accessibility statement