MIMF

Here's a kwitra I built, which is a north African instrument related to the oud. For those unfamiliar with this instrument: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kwitra

Sound and video sample here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBmAQBhj0Jk

What is the purpose of the patch in front of the bridge? Or is it just decoration?

Karl Wicklund wrote:What is the purpose of the patch in front of the bridge? Or is it just decoration?

It's a pickguard. On this instrument it's traditionally this shape, which is supposed to be the shape of a baklava.

Hah, that's a cool connection. Does playing technique make the top vulnerable to wear right there?

Karl Wicklund wrote:Hah, that's a cool connection. Does playing technique make the top vulnerable to wear right there?

I haven't had any such problems (see video), but maybe I have a lighter touch than others. They are played (like the oud) with a long thin plectrum called a risha, so it makes sense to have the soundboard protected from that.