Others of her kitetails are created to be enjoyed inside. Whether revolving on wires or trapped in bottles, they still evoke the feeling of movement. Kites first appeared in China. When paper came into use in 200 BC, kites were made for the common people. In China, they have been used as signals to assemble fighting men, as fishing implements and, with firecrackers attached, as scarecrows.
Japanese fishermen fly kites to check winds before they set out to sea.
In Japan and China, they are flown at special times to assure good luck, health and happiness. Kite fighting contests occur in Japan, China and India. Mingei International Museum is funded in part by The City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture and The County of San Diego Community Enhancement Program.