This basin design has its roots in classical style, 

but there are many contemporary versions available.  The style dates back to a time when hiding the pipework was not much of a priority, and even with modern designs, the waste fittings and the hot and cold feeds will be visible below the basin.  Of course there are now decorative options for the plumbing, with chrome pipes and connectors, flexible tap connectors and of course the stylish bottle trap for the waste.

 

 

 

Some examples of wall hung basins: