Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-frettedmid-20th centuryDutar is a chordophone-lute-plucked-fretted Andkhoi of Afghan origin created in mid-20th century using wood, wound silk strings, button inlay measuring L. 47 11/16 × W. 8 1/2 × D. 7 1/8 in. (121.2 × 21.6 × 18.1… — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Wood, wound silk strings, button inlay |
| Dimensions | L. 47 11/16 × W. 8 1/2 × D. 7 1/8 in. (121.2 × 21.6 × 18.1 cm) Body L. 19 13/16 in. (50.3 cm); W. at neck joint - W. at nut 1 1/16 -7/8 in. (2.7 - 2.2 cm) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-fretted |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | Gift of Mark and Greta Slobin, 2015 |
| Date | mid-20th century |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Afghan culture. The estimated date range is 1950 – 1968.
Geography
Origin: Andkhoi, Afghanistan. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Dutar?
Dutar is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Dutar created?
Dutar dates to mid-20th century.
What material is Dutar made from?
Dutar is crafted from wood, wound silk strings, button inlay.
Where does Dutar originate?
Dutar originates from Afghanistan (Afghan culture).
Is Dutar in the public domain?
Dutar is not in the public domain; rights and reproduction restrictions may apply.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026