BLOG 28.  “Otaku existed in Edo period”

This is the whole illustration including the scenes of BLOG 22 to 27.

The illustration is inserted in the book Ehon Kikugasane published late 18th century. It shows that there was a kind of “Karakuri Otaku” in Edo period (1603-1867). Two mechanical dolls in front of the guest must be the collection of the husband, head of this family. Husband is an enthusiastic karakuri collector and will be buying a new advanced karakuri ningyo, tea serving automaton. However, the feeling of the people around him are generally cold.

(Ref: JAK p.98. Also my book『機巧の文化史 異聞』p.328-330)