Aftabeh

rdf:langString Aftabeh

rdf:langString Abtabeh (/ɑːftɑːˈbɛ/ Persian: Ābtābe), also called obdasta (Persian: ob – water and dasta – handle) is a pitcher made out of clay, copper, brass, or plastic which is used traditionally for purposes of hand washing, cleansing, and ablution. Its overall shape is similar to a ewer with an angled spout protruding from its side, from where water is poured. It shares resemblance with lota and kindi in Indian culture. Aftebehs are common in Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, and Central Asian countries. In Uzbekistan, the vessel is mostly called obdasta, but the term oftoba is common in Namangan and Andijan regions. Aftabehs are called ibriq in Qashqadaryo Region. Aftabehs are also similar to the lota used in Pakistan which have the same uses and are also used to clean the rear of a human as prescribed in Sharia which are the religious laws of Islam. Aftabeh is now mostly an accessory in toilets and used inside the bathroom alongside health faucets. Aftabeh has been used within Persia and the wider Central Asian region throughout history and many historical aftabehs, particularly elaborately decorated ones are on display at museums around the world as historical artifacts with cultural and artistic value.