Ablution refers to both the spiritual and physical role of water in cleansing. Water is used in religious rituals of various faiths to purify the spirit, to symbolize new birth, to wash away sin. The form of the sculpture—the use of the metal curtain to create a division—is reminiscent of Catholic confessionals, while its finial is from an old Catholic school fence. Conversely, other components are secular: the grate is from a hibachi grill; the metal screen is from a fireplace—both objects associated with fire. Water quenches fire; fire vaporizes water; both are seen as symbols of life.