Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-frettedlate 19th centuryTār is a chordophone-lute-plucked-fretted of Iranian (Persian) origin created in late 19th century using bone, wood, brass, parchment, various materials measuring 32 3/4 × 6 1/2 × 4 1/2 in. (83.2 × 16.5 × 11.5 cm) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Bone, wood, brass, parchment, various materials |
| Dimensions | 32 3/4 × 6 1/2 × 4 1/2 in. (83.2 × 16.5 × 11.5 cm) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-fretted |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889 |
| Date | late 19th century |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Iranian (Persian) culture. The estimated date range is 1870 – 1899.
Geography
Origin: Iran. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Tār?
Tār is housed in the Musical Instruments department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Tār created?
Tār dates to late 19th century.
What material is Tār made from?
Tār is crafted from bone, wood, brass, parchment, various materials.
Where does Tār originate?
Tār originates from Iran (Iranian (Persian) culture).
Is Tār in the public domain?
Tār 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