was always open, and would continue so unless constrained to remain
closed by a catch. On releasing the catch it consequently sprang
open. In order that it might be easily closed, four cords were
attached to four of the ribs and passed to the handle; and a loop
embracing these cords passed down by the side of the handle, and
enabled the possessor to close his umbrella without difficulty. From
the authority already quoted, we learn that whalebone was employed
for the ribs, and that their number varied with their length; for
example, when 24 inches long the number employed was 8; when 25
inches, 9; and when 26, 28 and 30 inches, 10 were used. Calico was
employed to cover umbrellas, and silk to cover parasols. The use of
parasols was common in Lyons at that period (1786); they were carried
by men as well as women; they were rose-coloured, white, and of
other colours, and were so light as to be carried without
inconvenience."

The "Encyclopedic Méthodique" gives some interesting particulars as
to the manufacture of Parasols and Umbrellas at the end of the
eighteenth century. From it, it appears that the ribs were
occasionally made of metal. "On étend cette couverture portative par
le moyen de quelques brins de baleine, ou de fils de cuivre ou de fer
qui la soutiennent." This is interesting, as showing that metal ribs
are not a very modern invention.

The following statement of the comparative weights and sizes of
Umbrellas was prepared by M. Farge for the French Exposition of
1849:--

Umbrellas Length of ribs. Weight,
of inches. Lb. oz.