Aquamaniles

/ˌæk.wə.məˈniːlz/ noun

Definition

The plural of aquamanile; multiple ornamental water pitchers or ewers used historically for washing and ceremonial purposes.

Etymology

Plural form of 'aquamanile' (Medieval Latin), from 'aqua' and 'manalis.' The '-es' ending is the standard Latin plural marker that was retained in English for this specialized historical term.

Kelly Says

Museum collections of aquamaniles are incredibly diverse—you'll find them shaped as griffins, human heads, and mythical beasts, each one a masterpiece that tells you something about what medieval people valued and how they blended utility with art.

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