Musical InstrumentsChordophone-Lute-plucked-frettedlate 19th–early 20th century
Tar is a chordophone-lute-plucked-fretted of probably Azerbaijani origin created in late 19th–early 20th century using wood, vellum, ivory, pearl, string, linen measuring W. 8 × L. 34 1/2 in. (20.3 × 87.6 cm) — now part of the Musical Instruments collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Wood, vellum, ivory, pearl, string, linen |
| Dimensions | W. 8 × L. 34 1/2 in. (20.3 × 87.6 cm) |
| Classification | Chordophone-Lute-plucked-fretted |
| Department | Musical Instruments |
| Credit Line | Gift of Miss Alice Getty, 1946 |
| Date | late 19th–early 20th century |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the probably Azerbaijani culture. The estimated date range is 1870 – 1910.
Geography
Origin: Azerbaijian?.
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–early 20th century.
What material is Tar made from?
Tar is crafted from wood, vellum, ivory, pearl, string, linen.
Where does Tar originate?
Tar originates from Azerbaijian? (probably Azerbaijani 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