Antique Umbrellas & Parasols: Victorian Accessories & Decorative Handles
Antique umbrellas and parasols are the ornamental and functional rain and sun shields produced from the 18th through early 20th centuries. While the fabric canopies are often deteriorated, the handles represent extraordinary craftsmanship in gold, silver, carved ivory, porcelain, jeweled metalwork, and exotic materials. Collectors focus primarily on handles and complete parasols from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, when these accessories were essential elements of fashionable dress.
History & Development
Umbrellas arrived in Europe from China and the Middle East, becoming fashionable accessories by the late 18th century. The modern steel-ribbed umbrella was perfected by Samuel Fox in 1852. Parasols (sun shields) were essential feminine accessories throughout the 19th century, with elaborate silk canopies and ornate handles. The finest handles were crafted by jewelers and silversmiths including Faberge, Tiffany, and numerous European workshops.
Types & Categories
- Parasols: Ladies' sun shields with decorative silk canopies and ornate handles
- Carriage Parasols: Small, hinged parasols designed for use while seated
- Gentlemen's Umbrellas: Full-size rain umbrellas with fine handles in silver, gold, horn, or hardwood
- Mourning Parasols: Black silk with jet or black-handled fittings
- Handles Only: Detached handles collected for their artistry; the most active collecting area
- Umbrella Stands: Victorian cast-iron, brass, or ceramic holders for hallway display
Auction Price Ranges
| Item | Era | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Victorian silk parasol (good condition) | 1870s-1900s | $75 - $400 |
| Gold-handled gentleman's umbrella | 1880s-1920s | $200 - $1,500 |
| Sterling silver handle (ornate) | Victorian/Edwardian | $100 - $600 |
| Carved ivory handle parasol | 1860s-1900s | $150 - $800 |
| Faberge or jeweled handle | 1890s-1910s | $2,000 - $25,000+ |
| Art Nouveau figural handle | 1895-1910 | $150 - $700 |
| Porcelain-handled parasol | 1860s-1890s | $75 - $350 |
| Cast-iron umbrella stand | Victorian | $75 - $400 |
Condition Factors
- Canopy condition: Original silk often deteriorates; intact canopies significantly increase value
- Handle integrity: Cracks, chips, or missing elements on handles reduce value substantially
- Mechanism: Working opening/closing mechanism on umbrellas adds value
- Hallmarks: Silver and gold handles with clear hallmarks aid dating and attribution
- Frame: Intact steel or whalebone ribs with original tips are desirable
- Material: Ivory handles face CITES trade restrictions; documentation of age is important
Collecting Tips
- Handles are the primary focus for most collectors, as intact canopies are scarce
- Gold and silver handles should be examined for hallmarks indicating maker, date, and metal content
- Art Nouveau figural handles (female forms, animal heads, flowers) are highly sought after
- Carriage parasols are among the most desirable complete examples due to their compact decorative appeal
- Parasol canopies in unusual colors or with lace inserts bring premiums when intact
- Ivory-handled pieces predate the CITES ban and require age documentation for legal sale
- Victorian umbrella stands are collected separately as decorative furnishing accessories