Having invented the umbrella over 3,500 years ago, China remains the world's leading umbrella producer. The Chinese use them to protect themselves from both rain and sun. A demanding choice of materials and no fewer than 80 steps are required to make an umbrella. There was a time when emperors and high-ranking officials used umbrellas on their tours to show that they were protecting the people. As a symbol of good fortune, umbrellas are often used at weddings and ceremonies, as well as in the performing arts (opera, dance, acrobatics).
In Chinese culture, giving an umbrella to a loved one (for love or friendship) means you want to separate from them. The Chinese word for umbrella is San, which also means separation!
Whether on foot or on a bicycle, Japanese people often carry an umbrella! With 100 million umbrellas sold every year, Japan is the country that uses umbrellas the most! There are several different types of umbrella. The transparent umbrella carried by city dwellers in crowded streets has the advantage of greater visibility. Transparent umbrellas can be bought anywhere, even in vending machines! Its use is almost unique, which explains the garbage cans full of umbrellas after every shower. Unlike in France, umbrellas are not allowed in stores, which is why there are umbrella garages outside stores, and even anti-theft devices! The colorful and original umbrella has a more superficial use: it completes an outfit and is the fashion accessory par excellence. It's essential for any ceremony. Finally, the umbrella, the summer version of the umbrella, completes the range... A handmade umbrella would cost around 400 euros.
Highly symbolic at a wedding, in India the umbrella embodies the transition from single life to married life. The umbrella is one of Buddha's eight symbols of fortune. It represents wealth and social status: the more umbrellas you carry, the higher your social standing! The handle of the umbrella is said to be the central axis holding up the world. The umbrella protects us from the heat, and even from spiritual suffering. The umbrella is said to be a kind of walking temple, which explains why Buddha is often depicted with a parasol over his head. Umbrellas in India are often beautifully decorated, colorful and adorned with pearls.
France sells 10 million umbrellas a year. With its unique know-how, France applies traditional, meticulous manufacturing methods. The curious can discover the secrets of Cherbourg umbrella manufacture during a visit to the Manufacture.
A prestigious accessory, used in political rituals, it became a "made in France" fashion accessory in 1852. The umbrella follows trends: transparent, colored, folding, straight. It distinguishes its wearer.
Rich in symbolism, the umbrella is an object of prestige that can be offered on many occasions. The umbrella inspires... Over the past few years, several French cities have been creating giant works of art using hanging umbrellas. Inspired by Portuguese artist Patricia Cunha's Umbrella Sky Project, the towns of Aurillac, Macon, Laon, etc. have invested in this urban decoration to revitalize their town centers and attract tourists. A successful operation, given the photos of colorful umbrella roofs posted on social networks.
With uncertain weather and unpredictable showers, England is the country where carrying an umbrella is a permanent must! Featured in films such as Mary Poppins and John Steed's Chapeau Melon et Bottes de Cuir, the umbrella is worn as much for its usefulness as for the style it confers on the wearer. Indeed, the umbrella has become the essential accessory for the perfect gentleman.
Switzerland is a major consumer of folding umbrellas. With only one producer, Switzerland imports most of the 3 million umbrellas sold each year.
On the other side of the Atlantic, the folding umbrella is a great success. No fewer than four people work full-time in the patent department to approve new umbrella patents filed every year.
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive our latest news
