Book excerpt: A delightful illustrated history of the umbrella—protector against rain and sun, weapon, and fashion accessory Culturally ubiquitous and multi-functional, the umbrella comes in many colors, shapes, and sizes, and its significance in different forms and throughout time is explored here. Its use in the ancient cultures of Egypt is discussed, where it was often made of palm leaves and colored feathers, denoted rank, and even had a religious significance. The place of umbrellas in Roman times is also explained, where it was commonly used by women of fashion—and supposedly by effeminate men to defend themselves. This entertaining history also covers the Edwardian times, the Duke of Wellington, London stockbrokers, and the KGB.