Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-frettedlate 19th Century

Tar is a chordophone-lute-plucked-fretted of Armenian or Georgian origin created in late 19th Century using wood, skin, metal, gut, mother-of-pearl measuring Greatest depth. 17.9 x L. 87.3cm (7 1/16 x 34 3/8in.) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumWood, skin, metal, gut, mother-of-pearl
DimensionsGreatest depth. 17.9 x L. 87.3cm (7 1/16 x 34 3/8in.)
ClassificationChordophone-Lute-plucked-fretted
DepartmentMusical Instruments
Credit LineThe Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
Datelate 19th Century

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Armenian or Georgian culture. The estimated date range is 1880 – 1889.

Geography

Origin: Caucasus, Azerbaijan, Armenia or Georgia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Tar?

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

When was Tar created?

Tar dates to late 19th Century.

What material is Tar made from?

Tar is crafted from wood, skin, metal, gut, mother-of-pearl.

Where does Tar originate?

Tar originates from Azerbaijan, Armenia or Georgia (Armenian or Georgian culture).

Is Tar in the public domain?

Tar 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

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