This wash basin, which is about 45 centimeters in height, consists of two parts, mounted in a wooden case. The first part is a copper fish which appears to be swimming. Coming out of its mouth is a lever, which, when lifted, allows water to flow out of a small faucet under the fish's mouth. The second part, the basin, is also made of copper. It is mounted just below the fish in order to catch the water that falls from the faucet. The fish and basin together stand about one meter tall. Presumably, the wash basin was made of copper instead of silver because it is more durable, as can be deduced from the common use of copper piping for household plumbing throughout the early 20th century.

The use of a fish in this lavabo is significant for several reasons: fishing was a traditional occupation amongst Jews in ancient times; fish is commonly served during Shabbat; and perhaps most notably, fish were traditionally thought to be good luck as they are a zodiac sign in the Jewish calendar. In fact, many people believed fish could ward off the dreaded evil eye.

The practice of having a wash basin in a home is an ancient Jewish tradition. Bathing is not only for hygienic purposes in Judaism, but for ritual purposes, as well. It is customary for a Jewish person to wash himself or herself for sanctification, and to wash away impurities. Many Jews believe in such ritual bathings before meals and wash their hands in some form of a wash basin.

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