Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-frettedca. 1885Mahati Vina is a chordophone-lute-plucked-fretted of Indian origin created in ca. 1885 using gourd, various materials measuring Height: 14 in. (35.6 cm) Width: 56 in. (142.2 cm) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Gourd, various materials |
| Dimensions | Height: 14 in. (35.6 cm) Width: 56 in. (142.2 cm) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-fretted |
| 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: India. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Mahati Vina?
Mahati Vina is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Mahati Vina created?
Mahati Vina dates to ca. 1885.
What material is Mahati Vina made from?
Mahati Vina is crafted from gourd, various materials.
Where does Mahati Vina originate?
Mahati Vina originates from India (Indian culture).
Is Mahati Vina in the public domain?
Mahati Vina is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026