Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-unfrettedca. 1885Rabab is a chordophone-lute-plucked-unfretted of Indian origin created in ca. 1885 using tun wood measuring L. 114.3 cm (45 in.); D. 29.8 cm (11-3/4 in.) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Tun wood |
| Dimensions | L. 114.3 cm (45 in.); D. 29.8 cm (11-3/4 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: India. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Rabab?
Rabab is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Rabab created?
Rabab dates to ca. 1885.
What material is Rabab made from?
Rabab is crafted from tun wood.
Where does Rabab originate?
Rabab originates from India (Indian culture).
Is Rabab in the public domain?
Rabab is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026