Gawharet El Fan 17" Darbuka - Obsidian Star
Gawharet El Fan 17" Darbuka - Obsidian Star
17" Egyptian Darbuka · Mother of Pearl
by Gawharet El Fan
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Handcrafted in Egypt by Gawharet El Fan, the Obsidian Star Darbuka features prominent star motifs contrasted against a dark, obsidian-style mosaic layout. The 17-inch darbuka format delivers quick response with a focused low dum and crisp tek, making it ideal for solo performance, ensemble playing, and studio recording. The mother-of-pearl finish adds luminous depth while highlighting the dramatic contrast and precision of the star geometry.
- Handmade in Egypt by Gawharet El Fan
- Balanced, responsive sound with clear doum bass and articulate tek tones
- Genuine mother-of-pearl inlay craftsmanship
- Includes padded carrying bag, extra skin, and tuning key
Specifications
Specifications
- Instrument type: Darbuka
- Height: 17 in (43 cm)
- Head diameter: 10.5 in (26.25 cm)
- Playing skin diameter: 8.66 in (22 cm)
- Number of tuning bolts: 6
- Shell material: Aluminum
- Finish: Mother of Pearl inlays
- Origin: Egypt
Sound & Performance
Sound & Performance
The 17" darbuka is the classic and most widely used size in traditional Egyptian and Middle Eastern music. Known for its balanced tone, quick response, and natural control, it delivers a focused doum (bass) alongside crisp, articulate tek tones.
Its versatile size makes it comfortable for extended playing sessions while remaining highly responsive across a wide range of dynamics. Favored by players of all levels, the 17" darbuka excels in both traditional settings and modern performance contexts.
Ideal for:
- Traditional Arabic and Middle Eastern rhythms
- Versatile everyday playing
- Fast, articulate patterns and ornamentation
- Solo performance, small ensembles, and amplified setups
What's Included
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.