The Tea Server

I really want one of these.  The perfect blend of high-tech, tea culture, and the slightly weird: The Karakuri: Tea Server, a modern novelty originally designed almost four centuries ago by those clever Japanese:

This Kabuki-styled doll approaches surprised guests with a full teacup on a tray; it stops walking when the teacup is taken, waits quietly, bows, then slowly turns around, smoothly scooting away with the empty teacup on its tray.

Originally designed as a luxury toy of feudal lords and successful merchants in the Edo Period between 1603 and 1867. It was often used more as a social ploy to break the ice and get the conversation going between businessmen rather than to actually serve tea.

Comes in a kit you can assemble yourself for $89.95, or fully assembled for $169.95.  I actually might be able to talk the hubs into getting the kit.  He's very into robotics.  Unfortunately he's not much into completion.  We had a full-size R2D2 in our kitchen for about 5 years, complete with wheels, remote control movement and noises and all, but it never got past 80% completion.  But this seems like a very small project.  I want one!  Whaddya think hun?

Found via Engadget

Comments

[Vanathi]

wow...

[keewee]

The tea server is kinda' cute, but I would rather spend the money on some good quality tea.I used to collect all kinds of interesting 'objects'then ran out of places to store them, so I gave most of them to friends. I guess I am at the time of my life where clutter drives me nuts.