Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-frettedca. 1860Dutār is a chordophone-lute-plucked-fretted of Afghan (Turkmen) origin created in ca. 1860 using mulberry, bone, brass, silver, carnelian, turquoise measuring W. 6 1/16 × D. 5 1/16 × L. 39 3/4 in. (15.4 × 12.8 × 100.9… — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | mulberry, bone, brass, silver, carnelian, turquoise |
| Dimensions | W. 6 1/16 × D. 5 1/16 × L. 39 3/4 in. (15.4 × 12.8 × 100.9 cm) Body L. 12 11/16 in. (32.3 cm ) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-fretted |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | Purchase, James D. Krugman Gift, 2014 |
| Date | ca. 1860 |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Afghan (Turkmen) culture. The estimated date range is 1855 – 1865.
Geography
Origin: Afghanistan. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Dutār?
Dutār is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Dutār created?
Dutār dates to ca. 1860.
What material is Dutār made from?
Dutār is crafted from mulberry, bone, brass, silver, carnelian, turquoise.
Where does Dutār originate?
Dutār originates from Afghanistan (Afghan (Turkmen) culture).
Is Dutār in the public domain?
Dutār is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026