claude-andrew (asker) Jul 31, 2011:

@bourth Thanks for the research - I think I can safely call it a "pebble" basin (keeping the inverted commas), given the variety of interpretations

Bourth (X) Jul 31, 2011:

Three different types This one is china/porcelain/ceramic (and comes in different colours):

Pebble Basin
Organic and gentle in its design, the Pebble Basin is a truly unique expression of modern style, balanced by pure function and form in stone. Its fluid natural shape instantly transforms the bathroom with a spa like feel.
http://www.apaiser.com.au/product_detail/2/basins/84

Watch out for No. 6 here and see a natural granite pebble basin which does have something of a pebble shape about it:
6 The Pebble basin from Finwood is hand-carved from a single granite pebble, £450 (01926 484037)
http://www.homebuilding.co.uk/be-inspired/contemporary/buyer...

Then there's this one. What they refer to as "bold geometrical design" at http://www.wdbathrooms.co.uk/bathrooms-suites/basins-1/wall-... in no way resembles a pebble. Does the material of which it is made contain pebbles?

The JTNatural Geo Pebble 500 x 450mm basin is a compact yet stunning basin design. The contemporary pebble basin will add a natural element into your bathroom design. The basin is supplied with a 25 year guarantee from the manufacturers.
http://www.wdbath

Bourth (X) Jul 31, 2011:

It would appear that dans la famille "vasque galet" there are those that are made of earthenware (ceramic) and are shaped to look - supposedly - like pebbles (a dafter idea for a wash basin I cannot imagine - any splashed outside the "hole" will eventually dribble onto the floor) and those cut into real stone - rather larger than pebbles, however.