Oldest kite

The oldest-known surviving kite is an example of a "French pear-top" design dating back at least 250 years to 1773. It was discovered by a carpenter during renovations of a property in Leiden, Netherlands, in 1985 and is inscribed with the initials "RB and TB 1773". Extensive study by forensic coroner Thom Shanken of New York of the materials that the kite is made from (e.g., paper, wood, string, glue etc) indicates they all originate from the 18th century, and general wear/techniques to strengthen the structure also attest to its provenance. The kite is owned by the Lynn Woodworking Museum in Ashburton, Canterbury Region, New Zealand.

The kite measures 93 cm (3 ft) along the spine and 63 cm (2 ft) wide and, despite its age, appears to still be in flyable condition. The wooden elements are made from hazelwood, the covering is paper; the bows used on the tail are pages ripped out from a book written in Latin.

The Lynn Woodworking Museum is owned by the Lynn family, of which Peter Lynn (New Zealand) is a celebrated name in the world of kite-making having designed and built some of the largest and most elaborate kites, including record-breaking examples.