The Antiquities of Orissa v1.c10.271.1

v1.c10.271.1

**Umbrella :** The umbrella and the *cāmara* are represented very largely, but in no great variety. As insignia of royalty they were held in greater estimation than even the crown; and for goddesses, saints, and men of consequence, they are rarely forgotten. In Europe in the present day, the umbrella, though a highly useful article as a *parapluie* or a *parasol*, carries with it an idea of effeminacy. In ancient times *skiádeion* was held by Aristophanes as a lady's top, and the Romans assigned it to their gentle women, as an article befitting their delicacy. The Greeks, nevertheless, used it as a mystic symbol in some of their sacred festivals, and the Romans introduced the custom of hanging an umbrella in the basilican churches as a part of the insignia of office of the judge sitting in the basilica. It is said that "On the judgment hall being turned into a church, the umbrella remained, and in fact occupied the place of the canopy over thrones and the like", and Beatian, an Italian Herald, says "that a vermilion umbrella in a field argent symbolises dominion".¹²⁴ It is also believed that the cardinal's hat is a modification of the umbrella in the basilican churches. Among the ancient Egyptians, the umbrella carried with it a mark of distinction, and persons of quality alone could use it. The Assyrians reserved it for royal personages only.