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Antique c1895–1905 Folding Carriage Parasol with Original Matching Carry BagUp for sale is a wonderful, highly complete piece of late-Victorian to early-Edwardian travel history, confidently dated to circa 1895–1905. This is a genuine articulated carriage parasol (historically referred to as a folding sunshade), designed specifically with a mid-shaft hinge mechanism so a lady could fold the handle over for easy storage while seated inside a horse-drawn carriage or vehicle. ## Key Features & Details:
* **Provenance:** The internal metal structural frame is clearly stamped \"BRITISH MAKE\"—a classic hallmark of high-quality English umbrella frame manufacturing following the Merchandise Marks Act of 1887.
*Carry Bag:** Includes
* **Utilitarian Cord Loop:** Features its original vintage wrist strap anchor and carriage tie-down loop intact on the wooden shaft, used to tie the folded halves securely together while traveling.
* **Original Metal Spike:** Complete with its blunted iron/brass ferrule tip pin to protect the base of the shaft.## Condition Report
This piece is over 120 years old and shows a beautiful, authentic patina that confirms its historic age:
* **Fabric:** The cream canvas/linen canopy and matching bag display noticeable age-related foxing, rust staining, and discoloration scattered throughout. This is due to the natural degradation of the iron ribs during long-term storage. The fabric remains structurally intact.
* **Mechanism & Shaft:** The wooden shaft is solid and intact with no structural splits bar from at the tip where the iron spark protrudes. Please note there is an old period adaptation/modification around the central wing nut and hinge area, which was done historically to keep the locking mechanism secure and functional. This is a beautiful, historically honest artifact for advanced textile collectors, Victorian fashion historians, Edwardian reenactors, or high-end theatrical prop houses. ## Shipping & Returns:
Will be packaged with extreme care to protect the vintage wooden shaft and aged fabric during transit. Please review all close-up photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description. Sold as-is. Feel free to message me with any questions!