Hi Robert,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

This is a Dranyen, a traditional Tibetan musical instrument that usually has 6 strings grouped in 3 pairs. It is commonly used in Tibetan opera, monastic music, and contemporary Tibetan folk songs. It is similar to other Central Asian lutes, like the Chinese pipa or Central Asian dombra, but has its own unique tuning and playing style. Some modern versions incorporate electric pickups for amplified performances. Most have a hollow wooden body but some are covered in leather-like hide as yours is.

Based on it's style and condition, this is late 19th Century and similar versions typically sell for between $300-500 when in good conditions; because yours is missing some elements, it has a value of $200-300

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique Tibetan Dranyen
late 19th Century
With shaped scroll and tuning pegs, elongated neck, the body with flat hide-mounted top and rounded back .
32 inches long
CONDITION: This Dranyen is missing one tuning peg and the bridge
PROVENANCE: Acquired at a garage/yard sale
$ 200-300*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia