Langwerpige, taps toelopende doos met los deksel van karton met een gedrukt bloemmotief; bestemd voor een paraplu c. 1900 - 1915

This elongated, tapered box with a loose lid, crafted from cardboard, was designed by de Vries & Vigier to house an umbrella. While seemingly mundane, this object speaks volumes about shifting societal norms, gender roles, and class distinctions. The umbrella itself, initially a symbol of status and luxury, evolved into an everyday accessory. It served as a protective shield and a fashion statement. In Victorian society umbrellas were heavily gendered, with distinct styles marketed to men and women. This box subtly acknowledges these distinctions, offering a tailored container for this ubiquitous yet personal item. Think about the umbrella as an extension of the self, providing protection and reflecting individual style and social standing. The floral motif on the box might imply the feminine use of the umbrella it contains. It's a quiet reminder of the intimate relationship between objects, identity, and the social rituals of daily life.