Flag of AfghanistanMusical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-bowed-unfrettedmid-20th century

Qobuz is a chordophone-lute-bowed-unfretted Tashqurghan of Afghan origin created in mid-20th century using wood, horsehair, metal cloth wrapping measuring a) L. 29 5/16 × Greatest W. 7 9/16 × D. 4 7/16 in. (74.5 ×… — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumWood, horsehair, metal cloth wrapping
Dimensionsa) L. 29 5/16 × Greatest W. 7 9/16 × D. 4 7/16 in. (74.5 × 19.2 × 11.2 cm); Body L. 14 11/16 in. (37.3) b) L. 27 13/16 in. (70.7 cm)
ClassificationChordophone-Lute-bowed-unfretted
DepartmentMusical Instruments
Credit LineGift of Mark and Greta Slobin, 2015
Datemid-20th century

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Afghan culture. The estimated date range is 1950 – 1968.

Geography

Origin: Tashqurghan, Afghanistan. Flag of Afghanistan

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Qobuz?

Qobuz is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Qobuz created?

Qobuz dates to mid-20th century.

What material is Qobuz made from?

Qobuz is crafted from wood, horsehair, metal cloth wrapping.

Where does Qobuz originate?

Qobuz originates from Afghanistan (Afghan culture).

Is Qobuz in the public domain?

Qobuz 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

Related