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The basin like structure is known as a Baptismal font.
It is used mainly for the baptism of infants. Part of the ceremony involves
pouring water over the baby's head.
In most old churches in Britain they are near the entrance of the church
sometimes prominently placed but otherwise in a secluded area known as the
Baptistry.
Like the one in the picture they often feature elaborate decoration.
In recent times there seems to be a move towards incorporating baptisms
into other services, eg the Mass in an RC Church. When this happens the
ceremony usually takes place at the front of the church within view of the whole
congregation. As fonts are immovable the ppriest will often use a simple glass
bowl on a stand near the front of the altar.
In scripture we are told that Jesus Christ was baptised in the River
Jordan. Some Christian denominations use a baptismal pool in which the
candidates are completely immersed, symbolising rebirth into new life as a
Christian.
The use of the word fount / font for a form of typeface derives from the
French word from which we get the term Foundry - a place where metal
castings are made.
Best wishes
Michael in Norwich
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