About
musical instrument by unknown artist (1918.350)
Famous Examples
1These are specific, historically notable physical instruments — each with its own story, provenance, and place in musical history.
Farid al-Atrash's Concert Oud
c. 1940s–1950sMaker
Unknown (Egyptian maker) · Egyptian
Current Owner
Private collection
Location
Cairo, Egypt
Estimated Value
Priceless
Notable Players
Farid al-Atrash
Why It Matters
Farid al-Atrash was the greatest oud virtuoso of the 20th century — his playing combined Egyptian, Syrian, and Lebanese traditions and set the standard for Arabic popular music. His oud recordings remain the definitive benchmark for the instrument.
Description
A short-neck Arabic oud — eleven strings in five double courses plus a single bass. Unfretted, allowing the quarter-tones essential to maqam music.