It was rainy and blustery in High Point today, so I grabbed the slightly skewed umbrella kept in the car and jumped the puddles as I hurried in to our showroom.
Did you know that the unbrella was invented 4,000 years ago? The first umbrellas or parasols were designed to protect from the sun, and the Chinese were the first to waterproof their umbrellas for rain protection.
In the 16th century umbrellas were popular with women, but it was an Englishman in the 1700's, Jonas Hanway, who carried one publicly and made them popular with men as well. (Thought you might enjoy some umbrella trivia.)
Next comes the question -- where do we stow the wet umbrellas? To dry properly, of course, they must remain open before being put away. So... this rainy day and my wet umbrella bring my thoughts to some fabulous umbrella stands for holding the dried umbrellas until the next time it rains.
No need to guess the favorite activity of the homeowner who has this umbrella stand in his entry. Made of crocodile embossed brown leather, this golf bag stand has brass accents.
The second umbrella stand is a classic style with the hand-painted greyhound on coromandel, sporting brass feet and accents.
Thirdly, a trio of finely cast antique patina brass finished geese on a black marble base stand ready to guard the umbrellas in their charge.
Each of these would make a handsome addition to a foyer or mudroom placed near the door so that the umbrellas are at your fingertips next time you need to cover your head and jump some puddles on your way to the car or the office.
Elegant and distinctive pieces for your home today, with quality and style to last a lifetime... Do you have a Maitland-Smith treasure? www.maitland-smith.com
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