Pyrotechnician of Karakuri FIreworks

　In Ryukyu Kingdom, fireworks are called “Hibana” and a temporary department called “Hibana-ho” was established at the time of the Okansen. 1866, the Hibana-ho was headed by a Hibana magistrate, with two scribes and three clerks.
　There were three pyrotechnicians for production and demonstration, each with his own group. Each group belonged to 13 apprentices who excelled in craftsmanship and 2 clerks. The apprentices were mainly peasants.

Three pyrotechnicians are introduced here.
＜Asato-chikudun-pechin＞ Three generations of pyrotechnicians in the family. His grandfather (1800-1808) and father (1838) worked as pyrotechnicians for ceremonies to entertain Chinese envoys. He is in charge of “Kaketoko".
＜Tokasiki-chikudun＞ His father worked as a pyrotechnician in 1838, and he himself received instruction and a book of secrets on pyrotechnics in China. He is in charge of “Yonrinsha” and “Tamabi".
＜Yabiku-chikudun＞ He received instruction in sparklers in China. He was in charge of “O-uhiwa” and “Souryu,” and performed them again in Naha at the request of an emissary from China for the Chinese people.