Rare Early 19th Century Imperial Russian Copper Jewish Negel Vasser / Netilat Yadayim Washing Cup
Rare hand made 19th century Jewish copper cups for washing hands (Natla) no makers marks, though the type of construction used is indicative of Imperial Russia or Eastern Europe. Circa 1840s. Good large example. As per the clear pictures, there are bumps and dings, signs of imperfections, all commensurate with age and use. A rare original highly sought after piece.
Approx. Size: 5" h x 7.5" wide including handles.
Approx Weight: 514g
Ritual Hand Washing in Judaism
Jewish law and custom prescribe ritual hand washing in a number of situations. This practice is generally known by the Hebrew term נטילת ידיים (netilat yadayim), which literally means lifting up of the hands.
The Talmud used the requirement of washing the hands in Leviticus 15:11 as a hint for general hand-washing law, using asmachta (a Biblical hint, rather than an explicit requirement).