although I've been busy i thought it was time i wrote something for you, and here it is! today I'm writing on those good old Japanese umbrellas, also called paper parasoles. During this time, umbrellas were used as sun protection as women and Nobel's were "prized" for having pale skin. They are still used today in weddings, ceremonies, and many other outdoor events.
The oriental umbrellas go back into 1700's of China, trad Japanese umbrellas started not long after. In Japan they use several materials for their umbrellas, paper, waterproof cotton, bamboo etc; Making one is quite a long process.craftsmen, artists, fabric specialists are all involved. each component can take a few months just to complete, as they are made to perfection. Mostly you will find floral patterns upon a Japanese umbrella although if you look hard enough you will find quite a diverse range to chose from.
Today Designing and Making Japanese umbrellas is considered an art.
Since they are quite beautiful, Ive decided to scout some online websites you can buy one from:
http://www.asianideas.com/paper.html i really liked this site, they had quite a diverse range, yin-yang symbols, peacocks and a whole heap of unique ideas. (the umbrella above is available from here)
http://www.brolliesgalore.co.uk/acatalog/Patterned_Chinese_Paper_Parasols.html this one isn't quite as unique but they are still very pretty, (and a little more "traditional") also a fair few pages to view, under subheadings in the left bar. Just beware they sell all kinds of Umbrellas, not just oriental.
Additional information can be found here (also used as my resources)
