Oud

Date of Creation: Unknown

Materials: Agarwood body, Mother of Pearl inlay

Origin: Saudi Arabia

Date of Arrival in Dunedin: May 2009

Researcher: Claire Macindoe

History:

The Oud is a six-stringed musical instrument found in many Arabic countries. Each instrument is hand crafted out of Agar wood by master craftsmen, taking over two months. The thinner the wood used for the body, the better the sound produced. A distinct feature of the Oud is its lack of frets along the neck, thus making it a difficult instrument to learn, often taking years. Those who wish to learn must also find elders that play the Oud to teach them by word of mouth.

This Oud found its way to Dunedin two months after its owner, Abdulaziz Alshaer, had already migrated here. The owner sent for it after finding that he was lonely being in a new country and missed playing the Oud for his own enjoyment. He continues to find it a source of great happiness and plans to purchase a second Oud when he next returns to Saudi Arabia.

Significance:

Agar wood is culturally significant in Arabic societies, and highly valued, particularly for its fragrant perfume. First-class Agarwood is incredibly expensive and considered a relatively rare natural resource.