Oil-Coated Umbrellas: Meinung (1978)

Overview

Once essential on rainy days in Taiwan, the handcrafted oil-paper umbrella from Meinung,was not only a symbol of local craftsmanship but also a major source of livelihood. However, as Taiwan rapidly shifted toward an industrial and commercial economy in the 1980s, mass-produced plastic umbrellas replaced these meticulously made paper ones. What was once a daily necessity gradually became a nostalgic cultural artifact. Today, a handful of long-established artisans continue to follow traditional methods. With patience and precision, they craft each umbrella by hand. Though its original function has faded, their emotional bond with the craft remains unchanged. Their dedication and skilled workmanship reflect a deep-rooted respect for materials and tradition, preserving a vanishing heritage one umbrella at a time.