Ablution Ewer

Description

Ablution ewer - an archaeological ceramic vessel used for pouring water during washing, handwashing, and ablution. It was formed from light-grey clay and fired. The vessel has a globular shape, a swollen body, and a lower section that narrows towards the base. A pouring spout rises from the shoulder. The upper part of the spout is connected to the side of the vessel by an arched handle. The lower end of the handle is attached to the upper body. Two parallel incised lines encircle the shoulder. Vertical streaks of red paint are preserved on the exterior. The object was discovered at the Kuyryktobe settlement.

Ewers of this type were used to pour water in a controlled manner during washing, hand rinsing, and ablution. The elongated spout directed the flow of water, while the arched handle provided a secure grip when lifting and tilting the vessel. The parallel incised lines and red-painted streaks define its decorative character.

The museum object is an archaeological source illustrating personal hygiene practices at Kuyryktobe in the 11th-12th centuries, the use of ceramic washing vessels, and techniques for forming, decorating, and painting clay objects.