Yajifun stoneware Octopus vase - Export ware

[ClareBk]

We have a Meiji export ware Yajifun octopus stoneware vase. We know little about it other than it was made for the export market and alot of these were given as gifts. Made 1875-1878. I believe Yajifun is the application of the octopus onto the outside of a vase? If anyone knows about this item we would appreciate any information. Our database link is : Powerhouse Collection - Stoneware vase made in Japan.
Kind regards
Clare

 

[Majestic]

I am suspicious of the word Yajifun, because when I search for it in relation to this vase, I get a picture of this vase uploaded to a photo sharing site by a poster named "Yajifun". So it feels like a weird positive-feedback loop you got stuck into, and Yajifun isn't related to this vase at all, its just somebody's online handle. I've never heard of the term "Yajifun". But I'm not a ceramics expert.

I did find a similar vase at the Art Gallery of NSW, that indicates their vase was presented during an International Exhibition held in Sydney in the 1880s (and the Japan delegation was present for this, and for an earlier exhibition in Melbourne in the 1870s). Maybe you are already aware of this? Or maybe the Art Gallery of NSW has some more details on these items?

Octopus vase, 1870s by Meiji export ware

 

[ClareBk]

Hi Frank, Yes I am asking the assistant curator why this word is on our link in the collections database but not within the document. It was great to find a similar item so close to us here in Sydney!

 

[Majestic]

Hello Clare - good stuff. By the way, I'm not Frank.
I'm... Majestic.

 

[Grandpa Frank]

I'm so confused !

 

[Majestic]