Object of the Month: June 2026

• Object name: Sunshade 
• Material: Net, silk
• Date made: 1910
• Presented by Mr A Pilgrim, 1963

Chosen by Stefanie Tyler-Divine, Operations Officer

An umbrella is a handy item, whether for sunshine or rain.

The English word ‘umbrella’ comes from the Italian word ‘ombrella’, which traces its origins from the Latin word ‘umbella’. These words translate to shade or shadow. Parasols, sunshades and umbrellas became popular in England and France around the 17th century. They were often carried by servants who held them for their masters.

This embellished net sunshade is over 100 years old and has a silk lining.

I particularly like this item because it is something I could use today as it looks very pretty and feminine. It is also good for protection against the sun’s rays, which helps protect your skin from burning.

The Object of the Month can be seen in person throughout June 2026 at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery.