Did Venetian blinds, the most popular types of window blinds, originate in Venice?
Just like a cup needs a saucer, every window needs blinds! Well, window blinds are not new to human civilisation. They have existed for centuries to ensure privacy, control light and at times even for decoration. To be precise, window blinds date back to ancient Persia, now Iran, between 1100–1500 AD. But back then, they were not as fancy as you see them today. In those times, they were simple and made of reeds, bamboo or wood. The modern versions have come a long way from what they used to be, originally.
Where did window blinds come from?
Venetian blinds are the most popular types of window blind. But window blinds did not originate in Venice. As already mentioned, the most accepted theory suggests that they first appeared in the Middle East, specifically Persia. However, the exact year and inventor are unknown.
People believe that a Venetian merchant in Persia first spotted window blinds in Persian homes and brought them back to Venice. It was in Venice that the popularity of window blinds increased, owing to which they became known as Venetian blinds. Another theory suggests that window blinds originated in Egypt. This is based on historical records, which prove that slatted blinds made of reeds were used by the Egyptians for centuries. China is also credited with the invention of window blinds, which were made of bamboo strips. Although the true origin of window blinds is still a mystery, one thing is sure: They gained popularity in Venice.
Rise of Venetian blinds and the inception of curtains
Edward Bevan, an English merchant and inventor, patented the Venetian blinds in 1769. The innovation quickly garnered attention, and Venetian blinds began to evolve into what we know today. The blinds soon took over the streets of Paris as well. Paris, the fashion capital, gave the blinds a creative twist, transforming them from drab to stunning cloth window coverings. And that is exactly how curtains came to be! That is why window blinds in France are still referred to as 'Les Persiennes,' or Persian blinds. Cloth Venetian blinds became popular throughout Europe by the year 1750. The industrial revolution also played an essential role in increasing the popularity of cloth-based blinds. Furthermore, in the 18th century, the textile industry fuelled the industrial revolution, which lowered cotton prices. Thus, cotton became widely available, and well, then you can guess what happened. The mass production of cloth blinds and curtains began! Particularly, the homes of wealthy families were decorated with brightly coloured blinds and curtains. And thus, blinds quickly became a status symbol in Europe!
Modern window blinds
The modernisation of Venetian blinds occurred in the United States, where American innovators redesigned blinds to fit their structures and the various climates worldwide. To meet the rising demand, aluminium was being used extensively to make blinds. In 1950, two American inventors, Edward and Frederick Bopp, invented vertical blinds. However, these blinds were quickly surpassed by another form called vinyl mini blinds in 1980s. The vinyl-based mini blinds were a roaring success! In recent years, electric blinds have also been added to the list which can be operated using a remote control. How convenient is that!