Accession numberRMG-7203MeasurementsH675 x Dia850mmHistoryParasols as sun protection began in Ancient Egypt. They did not make their way to Europe until the 16th century when they were used almost exclusively by women. Larger, more masculine versions were created in Europe in the 1800s and were waterproofed to be used in the wet climate. Women continued to use the non-waterproof parasol for sun protection, but the device began to lose popularity in the 1920s while the collapsible, waterproof umbrella continues as an everyday staple.