Syrian Oud Value Guide

This Syrian Oud represents the golden age of Damascus luthiery, characterized by its fretless pear-shaped body and intricate bone rosettes. As the 'King of Instruments' that influenced the European lute, these 1970-1985 models are highly prized for their deep resonance and traditional craftsmanship.

What Is Syrian Oud Worth?

The typical price range for Syrian Oud is $850 - $935 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Structural integrity of the spruce soundboard and the absence of cracks in the walnut bowl.
• The intricacy and preservation of the decorative bone inlay and rosettes.
• The quality of the wood grain and the specific luthier's mark if present from the Damascus region.
• Playability and tonal richness, which are essential for instruments valued between $850 and $935.

How to Identify Syrian Oud?

• Look for a spruce soundboard paired with a bowl constructed from alternating walnut and rosewood ribs.
• Identify the specific Damascus-style decorative bone rosettes surrounding the sound holes.
• Check for an authentic fretless ebony fingerboard and traditional pegbox typical of the 1970-1985 era.
• Examine the internal bracing and construction techniques unique to Syrian luthiers of the late 20th century.

History of Syrian Oud

The oud is a central instrument in Middle Eastern music, evolving from the ancient barbat. This specific style, likely from the Damascus region, represents the golden age of Syrian luthiery. Known as the 'King of Instruments' in the Arab world, its design influenced the development of the European lute during the Crusades.