Paraplu met dek van zwarte zijde met rand van machinaal brocheerwerk en tamboereerwerk, op zwarte houten stok met vierkant handvat met in reliëf gesneden knop c. 1900 - 1915

This black silk umbrella, with its embroidered edge and carved wooden handle, probably by de Vries & Vigier, is a curious object. It’s not just about keeping dry; it's a statement, an accessory, a piece of sculpture you can carry. The color, or lack of it, is the first thing you notice. It’s not a flat black, though. There’s a sheen to the silk, a subtle play of light and shadow that gives it depth. Then you see the embroidery, these intricate patterns stitched into the fabric. Look closely at how the light catches those tiny threads, creating a kind of texture. It’s almost like drawing with thread. I love how this object occupies a space between art and utility. It reminds me of the work of El Anatsui, who also transforms everyday materials into something extraordinary. And, like so much good art, it’s not about answering questions, but about posing them. What does it mean to adorn an object of protection? What stories does this umbrella carry?