ELIAKIM TZUNSER’S WOOD AND WHITE METAL LAVABO SET.

c. 1887

Laver set mounted on large wooden, carved cartouche, comprised of cistern and basin. Ovoid cistern bears unique engraving of a jester and cymbals, with initials ‘E.T.’ and date‘1887;’ with detachable lid topped by urn finial (cistern: 17 x 12.5 inches). Semicircular basin with rolled lip, set on wooden shelf fitted to basin (basin: 5.5 x 13.25 inches). Wooden mounting: 34 x 20.25 inches.

Provenance: Eliakim TZunser. Born in Vilna, Yiddish poet, composer and playwright, Eliakim Tzunser (1836-1913) was well known as a ‘badchan’ - combination jester and master of ceremonies - utilizing melodies, rhymes and clever puns to entertain his audiences. He was said to have composed more than 600 Yiddish songs before emigrating to the United States in 1889. For a similar lavabo, see Sotheby’s New York, Judaica, December 15th, 2010, Lot 39.