Karakuri Doll Demonstration at JFT, May 24

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Date: Tuesday, May 24, 6:30 pm (Doors open at 6 pm)

Address: 131 Bloor St. W., 2nd Floor of the Colonnade Building

Admission: Free

RSVP Required: http://www.jftor.org/whatson/rsvp.php or (416) 966-1600 x103

The Japan Foundation , Toronto is very pleased to welcome Master Craftsman Tamaya Shobei IX for a special demonstration of Karakuri Ningyo, elaborate mechanical dolls that first became popular in Japan in the 17th century. Mr. Shobei represents the ninth generation of a line of esteemed artisans sharing his name who specialize in Karakuri Ningyo. Technologically advanced and aesthetically beautiful, Karakuri Ningyo are considered the forebears of modern-era Japanese robotics.

Mr. Shobei will be demonstrating two types of Karakuri Ningyo. Perhaps the best known form of these dolls, the Cha-Hakobi-Ningyo (tea-carrying doll) holds a tray, delivers a cup of tea to a guest, and then returns to its original position. The Yumi-Hiki Douji (arrow-shooting child), considered the pinnacle of Karakuri Ningyo craftsmanship for its detailed movements and facial _expression, can pick up an arrow and shoot it at a target.

Admission to this event is free, but please reserve early to guarantee seating.

Tamaya Shobei IX is visiting Canada as part of the Museum of Civilization 's new exhibition, Japan: Tradition. Innovation, on display from May 20 - October 10, 2011.

Visit the following sites for more information about Karakuri Ningyo:

www.toyota-ct.ac.jp/~jimu/syomu/suematsu/karafro.html
www.karakuri.info/

Images courtesy of Yoshikazu Suematsu.