A Silver Handled "Paragon" Parasol Umbrella Hallmarked for D&C, London 1912, by S. Fox & Co
SOLD
Origin: English
Period: Early Twentieth Century
Provenance: Unknown
Date: c.1912
Length: 34.5 inches
Canopy Diameter: 36 inches
The nylon canopy stretched over the Fox patent U-shape frame, with original label and the wooden shaft styled to imitate bamboo, with a chased silver handle hallmarked for D&C London, 1912. There is some pitting to the silver, but overall still attractively designed and presented. The canopy has only one small hole and both the lower and upper catch mechanisms are in tact.
The Paragon Umbrella frame was patented by Samuel Fox in 1852, which featured a U-section of string steel that was far superior to any competitor. To satisfy increasing demand, in 1860, Samuel Fox had established a works at Amiens, France, to manufacture umbrella frames.
The Paragon umbrella became the most successful, and sought after, umbrella of the nineteenth century, and forged a reputation for quality. Created at a time when parasols and umbrellas were important fashion accessories, designed to last, not throwaway items found in bargain bins, or stuffed into handbags.
As functional and attractive as ever, this essentially Edwardian creation provides relief from the elements but does so with unparalleled sophistication.