Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
PITCH'ER. The custom of drawing water in pitchers still prevails in the East, an earthen vessel with two handles or in modern times a skin-bottle being used for the purpose; and the letting down of the pitcher upon the hand. Gen 24:18, justifies the inference that it was carried upon the head or left shoulder and balanced with the right hand, and when presented was rested on the left hand.