Origins

The word umbrella is derived from the Latin umbèlla in the sense of umbraculum, which means shadow in Latin. This object was invented for a specific purpose, which is hidden in its meaning.

Sunlight is the origin of the word, which is why umbrellas were invented to protect against the sun rather than rain.

Let’s start at the beginning, from its birth to its evolution.

An umbrella was created to perform a specific function during religious rites. This extraordinary object was invented by the Egyptians to provide shade from the sun to pharaohs and priests during religious ceremonies. Later, also in Greece, in Athens, it was for a long time used for the processions of Poseidon, Bacchus, etc. An object, however, that was initially not for everyone.

By importing it to the Far East, the Jesuits transformed it into a beautiful silk accessory, no longer in the shape of a fan, but with a spherical shape and rays as we know it today. Finally, in Ancient Rome it was used as an instrument of seduction and was made of very precious fabrics enriched with pearls and shells.

It was only later in France with Caterina de’ Medici that it became a symbol of nobility and refinement. In fact, the umbrella was used for religious ceremonies at least until the fifteenth century. Only later did it become a more practical accessory, first for protection from the sun, and then for protection from the rain.

In the 1920s, the umbrella became the protagonist of the style, always coordinated with the clothes, shoes, bag, or hat.

Evolution

A variety of fabrics have been used in umbrellas over time, including leather, silk, lace, feathers, and tulle in the 19th century. It was during the Belle Époque that the umbrella became a popular fashion accessory. In this era, an umbrella was still regarded as a refined, luxurious object that was reserved for the few.

It was used by the butlers to shelter the gentlemen from rain when they went from the house to the carriage. The umbrella became not only a stylish accessory, but also a walking stick with highly valuable handles made of silver, ivory, tortoiseshell, and finely carved carvings.

During the 1960s and 1970s, umbrellas became popular in England, mostly used by women to shield themselves from rain. In the same years, colorful versions were invented, made of transparent colored plastic and synthetic materials that were waterproof.

However, in the years that followed, the umbrella became a simpler and less sophisticated object, while becoming lighter and more resistant. Therefore, before the umbrellas were made of bamboo, wood, or whalebone, they could easily deteriorate over time.

As we know, today’s umbrellas have eight wedges, but the Japanese invented two variants that had 12 to 18 wedges in waxed paper or cretonne with floral motifs, though these types were rarely used; only Jean-Paul Gaultier made it appear in his fashion shows, then proposed a modern version that had a glowing handle.

Pasotti Umbrellas 1956

Even though umbrellas are now within everyone’s reach, there are still designers who produce excellent, exclusive, and rare craftsmanship umbrellas.

In Mantua, Pasotti Ombrelli, founded in 1956, has been manufacturing luxury handcrafted umbrellas, exclusively made in Italy.

Known worldwide as some of the finest umbrellas, the Pasotti umbrellas are truly unique, authentic designer pieces, finely finished for design, colors, fabrics, materials, handles, decorations, sold all over the world with great popularity.

Originally a small artisan company, today it employs over 100 people and produces a limited number of pieces that are primarily distributed to foreign markets and to major international brands.

Keeping traditions and passion alive is what makes this company unique.

A number of famous artists have also “worn” umbrellas during their performances, including Madonna, Johnny Depp, Meryl Streep, and many others.

They are unique not only because of the manufacturing and the extraordinary prints but thanks to their sticks. They can also be tailored and made to size for customers.

Wearing a Pasotti umbrella is like wearing a real “jewel.” They are also foldable so you can carry them everywhere.

Let’s applaud those who, despite difficult times, continue to stand out every day by combining determination, craftsmanship, and stylish accessories!