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Gawharet El Fan 18.5" Sombaty Darbuka - Arabesque

Gawharet El Fan 18.5" Sombaty Darbuka - Arabesque

18.5" Egyptian Sombaty Darbuka · Mother of Pearl

by Gawharet El Fan

$479.99 CAD
$549.99 CAD $479.99 CAD
$479.99 each
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Shipping calculated at checkout.

Handcrafted in Egypt by Gawharet El Fan, the Arabesque Sombaty features interlaced curves and rhythmic linework that echo traditional arabesque motifs found in historic architecture. The 18.5-inch Sombaty body produces rich low frequencies with clear articulation and controlled resonance, making it ideal for stage performance, ensemble playing, and studio recording. Its mother-of-pearl mosaic finish highlights the movement of the design while showcasing authentic Egyptian craftsmanship.

  • Handmade in Egypt by Gawharet El Fan
  • Professional sound with deep doum bass and crisp tek tones
  • Genuine mother-of-pearl inlay design
  • Includes padded carrying bag, extra skin, and tuning key

Specifications

  • Instrument type: Sombaty Darbuka
  • Height: 18.5 in (47 cm)
  • Head diameter: 11.5 in (29 cm)
  • Playing skin diameter: 9 in (23 cm)
  • Number of tuning bolts: 6
  • Shell material: Aluminum
  • Finish: Mother of Pearl inlays
  • Origin: Egypt

Sound & Performance

The 18.5" Sombaty darbuka delivers a powerful balance of depth and clarity. Its larger body produces a full, resonant doum (bass) with strong projection, while maintaining crisp tek tones and controlled sustain. Favored by advanced and professional players, this size offers the dynamic range and presence needed for expressive, confident performance. Ideal for:

  • Traditional Arabic & Middle Eastern rhythms
  • Live stage performance
  • Ensemble playing
  • Studio recording

What's Included

  • Drum
  • Original padded carrying bag
  • Extra synthetic skin
  • Tuning key
  • Fast Shipping
  • Easy Return
  • Free 1-Year Warranty
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Artisanal Craftsmanship Note

Each darbuka is handcrafted in Egypt using natural mother of pearl by skilled artisans. Subtle variations in pattern, tone, or finish are a natural part of the authentic, artisanal process, making every instrument visually unique. Minor aesthetic variations or small surface artifacts may be present and reflect the individuality of handcrafted work; they do not affect sound quality or performance.
Synthetic playing heads are supplied new by the manufacturer and may occasionally show light cosmetic marks from handling or transport. All drums are brand new, carefully inspected, and fully playable before shipping. Because of the handmade process, the appearance of each darbuka may vary slightly from the product images shown. If you have any questions or would like additional photos before ordering, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help.

Instrument Names & Terminology

The darbuka is a traditional Middle Eastern goblet drum known by different names depending on region and musical tradition. You may also encounter the terms doumbek, tabla, or derbakeh, which are commonly used to describe the same family of Egyptian and Middle Eastern goblet drums.
Terms such as darbuka, sombaty, and dohola refer to different sizes within this instrument family. Larger sizes, including sombaty and dohola, are typically chosen for their deeper bass response and stronger low-frequency presence, while smaller darbukas offer a lighter, more agile sound.

About Gawharet El Fan

Gawharet El Fan is widely regarded as the benchmark for Egyptian darbukas. Known for consistent sound quality, durable construction, and traditional craftsmanship, their instruments are trusted by professional percussionists around the world.