Lot 159
Copper Washbasin for Ritual Hand-Washing in the Synagogue – Eastern Europe, 19th Century
Water container and basin for washing hands. [Eastern Europe, 19th century].
Copper, hammering and etching. Water container for hanging on a wall, with basin hung underneath for collecting the water.
The container is designed like a bell, with a removable cover for filling. At the bottom are two brass faucets. Etched on the container are "Al Netilat Yadayim" and the shape of "Cohanim's" hands. The acronym C.K. ["Chevra Kadisha"] is etched on the basin.
In Eastern European communities, it was customary to hang such a device at the entrance to the Synagogue for ritual hand-washing as preparation for prayer and for "Cohanim "before blessing the congregation.
Height of container: 28 cm. Maximum width: 31 cm. Height of basin: 20 cm. Width: 35 cm.
