Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-unfrettedca. 1885Ektar is a chordophone-lute-plucked-unfretted Maharashtra? of Indian origin created in ca. 1885 using gourd, skin, bamboo, wire, metal measuring L. 111.8 cm (44 in.); D. 25.4 cm (10 in.) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Gourd, skin, bamboo, wire, metal |
| Dimensions | L. 111.8 cm (44 in.); D. 25.4 cm (10 in.) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-unfretted |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889 |
| Date | ca. 1885 |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Indian culture. The estimated date range is 1880 – 1890.
Geography
Origin: Maharashtra?, India. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Ektar?
Ektar is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Ektar created?
Ektar dates to ca. 1885.
What material is Ektar made from?
Ektar is crafted from gourd, skin, bamboo, wire, metal.
Where does Ektar originate?
Ektar originates from India (Indian culture).
Is Ektar in the public domain?
Ektar is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026