parasol

A parasol is a lightweight umbrella specifically designed for protection from the sun. Historically, umbrellas in ancient civilizations like Egypt and China were used to shield important individuals from the sun, serving as symbols of status and authority. The ancient Greeks and Romans adopted umbrellas, with the Romans using them for rain protection.

While umbrellas fell out of use in Europe during the Middle Ages, they reappeared in Italy by the late 16th century. By the 18th century, they were common across Europe. A smaller, more delicate version, known as a parasol, became a fashionable accessory for women to shield their faces from the sun. Modern umbrellas, including parasols, now feature steel frames and come in a wide array of colors and designs.12