Musical InstrumentsMembranophone-single-headed / frame drumsecond half 19th century
Tar is a membranophone-single-headed / frame drum of Tuareg people origin created in second half 19th century using wood, hide measuring Diam. 20.8 cm (8 3/16 in.), D 3.7 cm (1 7/16 in.) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Wood, hide |
| Dimensions | Diam. 20.8 cm (8 3/16 in.), D 3.7 cm (1 7/16 in.) |
| Classification | Membranophone-single-headed / frame drum |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | Gift of Herbert J. Harris, by exchange, 2001 |
| Date | second half 19th century |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Tuareg people culture. The estimated date range is 1850 – 1899.
Geography
Origin: Mauritania.
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 second half 19th century.
What material is Tar made from?
Tar is crafted from wood, hide.
Where does Tar originate?
Tar originates from Mauritania (Tuareg people 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