Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-frettedlate 19th–early 20th centuryRubab is a chordophone-lute-plucked-fretted Karachi from Pakistan created in late 19th–early 20th century using wood, skin, gut, bone, mother-of-pearl measuring L. 85.1 cm (33-1/2 in.); D: 24.5 cm (9-11/16 in.); W: 18.9… — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Wood, skin, gut, bone, mother-of-pearl |
| Dimensions | L. 85.1 cm (33-1/2 in.); D: 24.5 cm (9-11/16 in.); W: 18.9 cm (7-7/16 in.) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-fretted |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889 |
| Date | late 19th–early 20th century |
Historical Context
Geography
Origin: Karachi, Pakistan. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Rubab?
Rubab is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Rubab created?
Rubab dates to late 19th–early 20th century.
What material is Rubab made from?
Rubab is crafted from wood, skin, gut, bone, mother-of-pearl.
Where does Rubab originate?
Rubab originates from Pakistan.
Is Rubab in the public domain?
Rubab 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