This section is from the "A Complete Dictionary of Dry Goods" book, by George S. Cole. Also available from Amazon: A complete dictionary of dry goods and history of silk, cotton, linen, wool and other fibrous substances,: Including a full explanation of the modern processes ... together with various useful tables.
Line the background and sides with yellow serge, or China silk. In the center of the window place a small wooden box covered with the same material. Upon this set a dozen parasols and sunshades, their ferules being inserted in holes made for that purpose at the base. This will allow the parasols to spread in a circular manner. On both sides place similar boxes, but lower, not over six inches from the floor of the window. Over each of these bunches of parasols (which are closed), arrange a bright colored one spread, handle downward, and with the fop of cover coming but an inch or two above the handles of those inserted in the box. High above all, in the center hang a fully opened parasol of black silk from the ceiling, with two others (white) on each side. The yellow background forms a very striking contrast with the more sombre colors of the parasols.
 
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