Taking the umbrella

a daily necessity

as the research object

this paper aims to explore the evolution of its artistic expression and design aesthetics throughout the long course of history. Adopting interdisciplinary methods including historical document research

archaeological data analysis

cross-cultural comparison and industrial case studies

the study systematically sorts out the journey of the umbrella evolving from a practical tool into a cultural symbol

an artistic carrier and a foundation of industrial economy. The research shows that in early civilizations such as ancient Egypt

India and China

umbrellas were all associated with the divine right and royal power and served as visual symbols of social hierarchy.By examining the umbrella from multiple perspectives

this paper reveals how material culture carries people's spiritual values and social changes through design aesthetics in different historical backgrounds

thereby providing a brand-new perspective and method for the research of material culture.