半はん挿ぞう

noun

lacquerware pouring vessel; teapot-like server

A traditional Japanese vessel, often lacquered, used for pouring hot or cold liquids. Resembles a teapot but is not limited to tea. This is a specialized term for a historical or ceremonial object.

• 茶さ道どうでは、半はん挿ぞうを使つかって湯ゆを注そそぐことがある。

  In tea ceremony, a hansō is sometimes used to pour hot water.

• この半はん挿ぞうは江え戸ど時じ代だいの漆しっ器きで、酒さけを注そそぐのに使つかわれた。

  This hansō is an Edo-period lacquerware piece, used for pouring sake.

noun

washbasin with handles; hand-washing basin

A basin of water with two handles on either side, used for washing the face or hands. Often associated with traditional settings. Cross-referenced with 盥 (tarai), a more general term for a basin.

See also: たらい

• 旅りょ館かんの入いり口ぐちに半はん挿ぞうが置おいてあり、手てを清きよめるのに使つかう。

  At the entrance of the ryokan, a hansō is placed for purifying one's hands.

• この半はん挿ぞうは両りょう側がわに取とっ手てが付ついていて、顔かおを洗あらうのに便べん利りだ。

  This hansō has handles on both sides, making it convenient for washing one's face.