Chinese style retro oil paper umbrella

The oil-paper umbrella is one of the ancient traditional items of the Han ethnic group, with a history spanning over 1000 years. Handcrafted bamboo strips form the umbrella frame, while the umbrella surface is made of cotton paper coated with natural waterproof tung oil. The oil-paper umbrella, the world's earliest form of umbrella, is entirely handcrafted and sourced from nature, a testament to the wisdom of ancient China.

There are two types of oil-paper umbrellas: tung oil umbrellas and stone-rubbed umbrellas. Tung oil umbrellas, older in origin, are crafted by hand using pure cotton paper and tung oil, renowned for their lightweight, easy storage, portability, and eco-friendly nature. Stone-rubbed umbrellas use chemical materials for the surface, featuring exquisite printing and vibrant colors.

Oil-paper umbrellas find varying degrees of application across Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand. In China, they are widely used in daily life and religious ceremonies, such as for shade, rain protection, and in weddings.

However, with the advancement of modern technology and changes in people's lifestyles, the usage of oil-paper umbrellas has gradually declined. Nowadays, they are primarily sold as artworks and souvenirs for tourists. Fenshui Oil-paper Umbrella Factory remains the only surviving enterprise in China that upholds the traditional craft of tung oil and stone-rubbed paper umbrella production.

In summary, the oil-paper umbrella not only serves as a practical rain accessory but also symbolizes traditional Chinese culture and the wisdom of ancient people.

Skeleton: Bamboo

Fabric: High toughness oil paper

“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,
Love like you'll never be hurt,
Sing like there's nobody listening,
And live like it's heaven on earth.”

― William W. Purkey