Japanese Rain Umbrella

Object/Artifact

Drexel Founding Collection

Name/Title

Japanese Rain Umbrella

Entry/Object ID

2399

Made/Created

Artist

Unidentified

Place

Country

Japan

Continent

Asia

Dimensions

Dimension Notes

Diam, Height: 3 1/2x30 1/2 in Diameter is of closed umbrella; Diam, Height: 8.89x77.47 cm Diameter is of closed umbrella

Material

rice paper, bamboo

Interpretative Labels

Label Type

Exhibition Label

Label

This 20th century umbrella was made in Japan. Umbrellas were introduced to Japan during the Asuka period (538-794) and soon became popular for protection from sun and rain and in Japanese cultural practices.

Label Type

Exhibition Label

Label

Along with daily utility, the umbrella was adapted to many different aspects of Japanese culture.

Label Type

Exhibition Label

Label

The origin of the oil paper umbrella was China, but as it spread throughout Asia each country developed specific characteristics and uses for their umbrellas.