Chinese Kites

Kites have a long and interesting history in China, where they were invented some 2,400 years ago. Kite-flying, once used for military purposes and in scientific research, is still a popular sport and pastime in China today. In the eyes of the connoisseur, a skillfully made kite is a work of art.

All the kites shown here are handmade, hand painted and, principally, constructed of silk and bamboo. While sometimes used exclusively for decoration, silk and bamboo was chosen as building materials because they are both very light and very strong.

Do not fly kites near power lines or in bad weather.
Adult supervision required for children.
Not suitable for young children and infants.