Chinese Kites
Chinese Kites – Chinese Folklore
In ancient China the kite was known as “Zhiyuan” (paper glede). The kite is featured prominently in many art collections, and was considered to have unique artistic value.
It first appeared in the wars of the Spring and Autumn Period. During the prosperous Tang Dynasty, when entertainments thrived with the development of culture and economy, kites became the cossets of the people of both court and country.
On Mingqing, or the day of Pure Brightness, people took time not to just to worship their ancestors but also to take a walk in the countryside to enjoy pastoral life. Making and flying various kites reflected the pleasing mood of the spring. Kite-flying is now believed to be a good for the health.
According to taste, kites can have shapes as diverse as that of a dragonfly, swallow, centipede or butterfly. Secondly, paste paper onto the framework. The paper is required to be tough and thin with even and long fibers. Some high quality kites are even covered with thin silk. Finally, decorate the kites with colorful chiffon, ribbons and paintings.
Swallow-shaped kites are quite popular in Beijing. Craftsmen fashion them in many different ways. Some are strewed with peonies, bats and other auspicious patterns to bring the owner good fortune.
Tianjin boasts the large variety of kites. With different unique and novel shapes, a larger kite can measure hundreds of meters while the smallest can be put in an envelope. Kites with soft wings in the shape of insects, goldfish, clouds and even a swallow linked with dozens of little swallows are all available, and each of these attractive kites reflects the consummate skill of the craftsman.
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