Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-frettedca. 1972Small Sitar is a chordophone-lute-plucked-fretted Chennai (Madras) of Indian origin created in ca. 1972 using wood, gourd, metal, bone measuring H. 26 x W. 30.1 x L. 96.5cm (10 1/4 x 11 7/8 x 38in.) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Wood, gourd, metal, bone |
| Dimensions | H. 26 x W. 30.1 x L. 96.5cm (10 1/4 x 11 7/8 x 38in.) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-fretted |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | Gift of Premila and C.S. Narasimhan, 2008 |
| Date | ca. 1972 |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Indian culture. The estimated date range is 1970 – 1975.
Geography
Origin: Chennai (Madras), India. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Small Sitar?
Small Sitar is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Small Sitar created?
Small Sitar dates to ca. 1972.
What material is Small Sitar made from?
Small Sitar is crafted from wood, gourd, metal, bone.
Where does Small Sitar originate?
Small Sitar originates from India (Indian culture).
Is Small Sitar in the public domain?
Small Sitar 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