The first Japanese robots appeared back in the 17th century: stunning mechanical dolls

Japan is known worldwide for its high level of technical development and the invention of a large number of diverse robots. But few people know that the first mechanical dolls - the predecessors of robots - appeared in Japan as early as the 17th century, more than 100 years before they learned to make similar mechanisms in Europe. And these were not just mechanical dolls, but almost living beings who could show tricks, shoot archery and serve tea to guests, acting according to a certain program.

The prototypes of modern robots are mechanical dolls that were made in Japan during the Edo era (1603-1868) and which were called karakuri-ningyo. These unique inventions were based on European mechanical devices - chronometers, which entered the country with merchant ships. The first robot toy that was invented in Japan was the doll of master Taked Kiyofus, who served tea during a party reception. Tyahakobi-ningyo - this is the name of this robot doll, which drove up to the guest, nodding its head and carrying a cup of tea on a tray, when they took the cup, the doll stopped when the container was put back on the tray, the robot turned around and rode back.

Following this doll, others were created: a child jumping on a toy horse, shooting an archer, an acrobat descending the stairs, and others. Below is a snapshot of the video showing the reconstructed Japanese robots of the Edo era in action.

Mechanical dolls were used to surprise and entertain guests during receptions in the homes of wealthy Japanese, and were widespread until the end of the 19th century. These dolls were made of wood, without the use of metal, and the clockwork mechanism was the basis of their action. Researchers of this ancient mastery believe that it was the Japanese love of various kinds of mechanical dolls that subsequently developed into an addiction to robots, which in one form or another today are present in almost every Japanese house.