Too Hot to Handle

Among my many collections, is one comprised of vintage umbrellas.  The attention to detail is what draws me to these.  It seems to be a lost art.  Not only do the umbrellas have great fabric prints, but the handles are always something special.  As I've said before, I just can't bear to see them tossed into a landfill or unappreciated.  Here are a few of my favorites from my personal collection.


This handle is sterling silver and probably dates to the late 1800s.  I think it looks like the handle of a cane.

The handle of this umbrella is made of ivory and resembles a sword handle.  It was probably made by a former swordmaker when swords became obsolete.

What handle could be better than this one??????

These are the most "lady-like" of the bunch.  They are both made in Italy, just one more reason to love Italy (as if the food and wine weren't enough).