Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-unfrettedca. 1880Sursanga is a chordophone-lute-plucked-unfretted Bengal of Indian origin created in ca. 1880 using tun wood, gourd, bone, ivory. gut, wire measuring L. 106.7 cm (42 in.); D. 24.1 cm (9½ in.) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Tun wood, gourd, bone, ivory. gut, wire |
| Dimensions | L. 106.7 cm (42 in.); D. 24.1 cm (9½ in.) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-unfretted |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889 |
| Date | ca. 1880 |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Indian culture. The estimated date range is 1870 – 1890.
Geography
Origin: Bengal, India. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Sursanga?
Sursanga is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Sursanga created?
Sursanga dates to ca. 1880.
What material is Sursanga made from?
Sursanga is crafted from tun wood, gourd, bone, ivory. gut, wire.
Where does Sursanga originate?
Sursanga originates from India (Indian culture).
Is Sursanga in the public domain?
Sursanga is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026